What is Political Science?

Summary

Political science is the study of politics and government using social science tools. Political scientists employ the scientific method, similar to natural scientists, but focus on people and institutions that address or fail to address social issues. The discipline sharpens quantitative reasoning and analytical thinking, which are valuable skills in many careers. Additionally, political science is relevant to everyone, as all citizens engage in politics, contributing to or accepting collective decisions. This field of study reflects the inherent conflict in human nature.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Political science is the study of politics and government, using social science tools.
• 🔬 Political scientists apply the scientific method, similar to natural scientists.
• ❓ The process involves stating a question, using theory, generating hypotheses, gathering data, testing, and making conclusions.
• 👥 Unlike natural scientists, political scientists study people and the institutions they create.
• 🏛️ These institutions are designed to solve social problems, though success varies.
• 📊 Studying political science develops quantitative reasoning and analytical thinking skills.
• 💼 These skills are highly valuable in many job markets.
• 👤 All citizens engage in politics, either by contributing to or consenting with collective decisions.
• 🌍 Political science is deeply connected to human nature, just like the conflicts it studies.
• 📚 Learning political science is essential for understanding and participating in society.

Q & A

What is political science?

Political science is the study of politics and government, using the tools of social science.

What method do political scientists use in their research?

Political scientists use the scientific method, similar to the method used by natural scientists.

What steps are involved in the scientific method used by political scientists?

The steps include stating a question, using a theory, generating hypotheses, gathering data, conducting a test, and making a conclusion.

What do political scientists study as opposed to natural scientists?

Instead of studying cells, plants, or forces of nature, political scientists study people and the institutions they create to solve or address social problems.

Why is studying political science valuable in terms of skill development?

Studying political science helps train the mind in areas of quantitative reasoning and analytical thinking, which are useful skills in many job markets.

How is political science relevant to all citizens?

All citizens practice politics in their lives, either by contributing to or consenting with collective decisions.

What is the relationship between political science and human nature?

Political science, like the conflict studied by political scientists, is considered to be a part of human nature.

How do political scientists contribute to understanding social problems?

Political scientists study the institutions created by people to solve or address social problems, providing insights into their effectiveness or lack thereof.

What distinguishes political science from other social sciences?

Political science specifically focuses on the study of politics, government, and related institutions, unlike other social sciences which may study broader aspects of human behavior and society.

What is the importance of the scientific method in political science?

The scientific method provides a systematic approach for political scientists to analyze and understand political phenomena, ensuring that their findings are based on evidence and logical reasoning.