Political science is a social science that deals with the study of politics, governance, and power. It encompasses a broad range of topics, including political institutions, political behavior, international relations, and public policy. If you’re interested in political science or considering taking a political science course, there are a few things you should know. In this article, we’ll cover some of the basics of political science.
The Origins of Political Science
Political science has its roots in ancient Greece, where philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle wrote about politics and government. In the modern era, political science emerged as a distinct academic discipline in the 19th century, primarily in Europe and the United States. Political science has since become a popular and widely studied subject, with numerous subfields and specializations.
The Subfields of Political Science
Political science is a broad field with many subfields and areas of specialization. Some of the most prominent subfields include:
Political theory
The study of political ideas and concepts, such as justice, democracy, and power
Comparative politics
The study of different political systems and institutions around the world
International relations
The study of relations between states and other actors in the international system
Public policy
The study of how policies are made and implemented by governments
Political behavior
The study of how individuals and groups behave in political settings
Key Concepts in Political Science
Political science is full of complex ideas and concepts. Here are a few key concepts to be familiar with:
Power
The ability to influence others or control outcomes
Authority
The right to exercise power, usually conferred by law or tradition
Legitimacy
The acceptance of authority or power as rightful and justified
Sovereignty
The supreme power or authority within a territory
Democracy
A form of government in which power is held by the people, either directly or through elected representatives
Totalitarianism
A form of government in which the state has complete control over all aspects of society
Political ideology
A set of beliefs about how society should be organized and how power should be distributed
Careers in Political Science
Political science can prepare students for a wide range of careers in government, non-profits, the private sector, and academia. Some common career paths for political science graduates include:
Government service
Working in local, state, or federal government agencies
Non-profit organizations
Working for advocacy groups, think tanks, or charities
Private sector
Working in industries such as lobbying, consulting, or journalism
Academia
Teaching and conducting research at colleges and universities
Current Issues in Political Science
Political science is a constantly evolving field, and there are many current issues that scholars are studying. Some of the most pressing issues in political science today include:
Populism and nationalism
The rise of populist and nationalist movements around the world
Democracy and authoritarianism
The tension between democratic and authoritarian regimes
Climate change and environmental policy
The impact of climate change on political systems and the need for effective environmental policy
Technology and politics
The ways in which technology is changing politics, from social media to artificial intelligence
Political science is a fascinating and complex field that encompasses a wide range of topics and ideas. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in politics, academia, or elsewhere, political science can provide you with a solid foundation in critical thinking, analysis, and communication. By understanding the origins of political science, the subfields and key concepts within the discipline, potential career paths, and current issues, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this important subject.
