What is Political Science?
Political Science Topics
FAQs on Political Science
1. What is Political Science really about?
Political Science is the systematic study of government, power, and political activities. It explores how countries are run, how laws are made, and how citizens interact with their leaders. At its core, it helps us understand the ideas and systems that shape our societies, from local communities to the global stage.
2. What are the main subjects or branches within Political Science?
Political Science is a broad field with several key branches that you will study. The main ones include:
- Political Theory: Explores fundamental ideas and concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and democracy.
- Indian Government and Politics: Focuses on the Indian Constitution, our political institutions (like Parliament), and political processes.
- Comparative Politics: Involves comparing the political systems of different countries to understand their similarities and differences.
- International Relations: Studies how nations interact with each other, covering topics like foreign policy, international law, and global conflicts.
3. How is studying Political Science useful in our daily lives?
Political Science is incredibly relevant to everyday life. It helps you understand the news, make informed decisions as a voter, and know your fundamental rights and duties as a citizen. It gives you the tools to analyse important social issues like poverty and discrimination and understand the government policies that affect you and your family directly.
4. What is the actual difference between 'Politics' and 'Political Science'?
This is a great question that often causes confusion. Think of it this way: Politics is the actual real-world activity of governing, debating, and exercising power. It's what politicians and governments do. Political Science, on the other hand, is the academic study of those activities. One is the game being played, and the other is the analysis of how and why the game is played that way.
5. Who is known as the father of Political Science and why?
The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle is widely regarded as the father of Political Science. This is because he was one of the first thinkers to study and classify different types of governments and constitutions in a systematic and analytical way, separating the study of politics from philosophy alone.
6. Why is the Indian Constitution so important to study in Political Science?
The Indian Constitution is the most important document for understanding Indian politics because it is the supreme law of the land. It provides the entire framework for our country's governance. It defines the powers and functions of the government's main organs—the legislature, executive, and judiciary—and lays down the fundamental rights and duties of every citizen. Essentially, it's the rulebook for our democracy.
7. Is Political Science only about studying politicians and elections?
Not at all. While politicians and elections are an important part, they are just one piece of the puzzle. Political Science also explores deeper questions about justice, rights, law, public policy, and how different countries relate to one another. It's less about daily headlines and more about the underlying structures and ideas that shape our world.
8. What career options are available after studying Political Science?
A degree in Political Science opens up a wide range of career paths beyond becoming a politician. Some popular options include:
- Civil Services (IAS, IPS, IFS)
- Law and Legal Advocacy
- Journalism and Media
- Policy Analysis and Research (Think Tanks)
- Academia and Teaching
- Work with Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
- International Relations and Diplomacy
