What is Political Science?
DEFINITION: POLITICAL SCIENCE
A social science concerned chiefly with the description and analysis of political and governmental institutions and processes.
-Merriam-Webster, Inc. 2011Political Science is one of the oldest academic disciplines. Roots of political thinking can be traced back thousands of years to the writings of Aristotle and other philosophers of his time. Concerns about freedom, equality, justice and peace have been central to all human history. Creating ordered societies through government and law have challenged the human race from the beginning of recorded time. In all cultures the requisites for order and the management of conflict lead to institutions and norms for building community traditions.
Questions of war and peace, legitimate government authority, and the limits on individual freedom and autonomy, have confronted the most profound thinkers. The creation of the American constitution and the founding of the American republic are viewed as momentous historical events: placing government under law and guaranteeing the rights of individuals.
Are You Interested in:
- Health Policy?
- Social Justice?
- Terrorism?
- Environmental Protection?
- Politics, Law or International Relations?
Take a class in Political Science and find out!
What do Political Scientists Do?
Check out our Careers in Political Science page for information on careers and employers.