Political Science

POLITICAL SCIENCE * It is the systematic study of the state in all its elements, aspects and relationships. * The term POLITICAL is taken from the Greek word POLIS meaning, city-state. * SCIENCE is derived from Latin word SCIRE which means “to know” and CIENCIA which means “knowledge” or “study” * The systematic study of and reflection upon politics. Politics usually describes the processes by which people and institutions exercise and resist power. Political processes are used to formulate policies, influence individuals and institutions, and organize societies. * Many political scientists study how governments use politics. But political scientists also study politics in other contexts, such as how politics affects the economy, how ordinary people think and act in relation to politics, and how politics influences organizations outside of government. * The emphasis upon government and power distinguishes political science from other social sciences, although political scientists share an interest with economists in studying relations between the government and economy, and with sociologists in considering relations between social structures in general and political structures in particular. * Political scientists attempt to explain and understand recurrent patterns in politics rather than specific political events.

THE IMPORTANCE OF POLITICAL SCIENCE * Political science is important because politics is important. * All peoples’ lives are affected in many ways by what governments do or choose not to do, and by the power structures that exist in society. * All peoples’ lives are affected in many ways by what governments do or choose not to do, and by the power structures that exist in society. * Political scientists usually influence the world in more indirect ways: by educating citizens and political leaders, by contributing to debates on political issues, and by encouraging different ways of looking at the