Introduction to Political Science
Political Science is a dynamic and multifaceted discipline that explores the intricacies of power, governance, and human societies. Often described as the “master science” by ancient thinkers like Aristotle, who famously called humans “social animals” (or zoon politikon in Greek), it delves into how individuals and groups organize themselves to make collective decisions, resolve conflicts, and pursue common goals. At its core, Political Science seeks to understand the structures, processes, and behaviors that shape political life, from local communities to global arenas. Whether you’re a student embarking on this journey or an educator preparing to inspire others, this introduction will outline the essence of the field, its key components, and its enduring relevance.
Meaning and Definition
Political Science is the systematic study of politics, which encompasses the exercise of power, the formation of governments, and the interactions between states, institutions, and citizens. It draws from philosophy, history, economics, sociology, and law to analyze how societies function and evolve. Unlike casual discussions of current events, Political Science employs rigorous methods—such as empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and comparative analysis—to uncover patterns and predict outcomes.
The discipline traces its roots to ancient civilizations. In India, for instance, texts like the Arthashastra by Kautilya (circa 300 BCE) provided early insights into statecraft, diplomacy, and administration, emphasizing pragmatic governance. In the West, Plato’s The Republic and Aristotle’s Politics laid foundational ideas about justice, citizenship, and the ideal state. Over centuries, thinkers like Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Marx have expanded these ideas, influencing modern concepts of democracy, sovereignty, and revolution.
Definition
Here are 10 definitions of Political Science by eminent scholars, presented as direct quotes:
- “Political Science is the study of the state.” – Aristotle[1]
- “Political Science is the study of who gets what, when, and how.” – Harold Lasswell[1]
- “Political Science is the authoritative allocation of values for a society.” – David Easton[1]
- “Political Science deals with the governance and organization of society through laws and social contracts.” – Jean-Jacques Rousseau[1]
- “Political Science is the study of the distribution and exercise of power within a given social order.” – Max Weber[1]
- “Political Science is that part of social science which treats the foundations of the State and the principles of government.” – Paul Janet[2]
- “Political Science begins and ends with the state.” – James Wilford Garner[2][3]
- “The study of shaping and sharing of power.” – Harold D. Lasswell and Abraham Kaplan[4]
- “Man is by nature a political animal.” – Aristotle[2][5]
Sources
[1] Meaning, Nature, and Scope of Political Science – PoliticaQnA https://politicaqna.com/meaning-nature-and-scope-of-political-science/
[2] [PDF] Nature and Scope of Political Science – Patna Women’s College https://patnawomenscollege.in/upload/e-content/Nature%20and%20Scope%20of%20Political%20Science.pdf
[3] PSIR Quotebook https://products.politicsforindia.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/PSIR-Quotebook-Sample.pdf
[4] MEANING AND SCOPE OF POLITICAL SCIENCE – Drishti IAS https://www.drishtiias.com/images/pdf/sr.%20secondary%20political%20science.pdf
[5] 100 famous quotes in political theory https://politicsbyrk.com/100-famous-quotes-in-political-theory/
[6] Political science | Fields, History, Theories, & Facts | Britannica https://www.britannica.com/topic/political-science
[7] [PDF] Definitions of Political Science https://www.iilsindia.com/study-material/143617_1609691198.pdf
[8] Political Science: Meaning, History, Career Scope & More – The Blog https://jgu.edu.in/blog/2024/02/20/what-is-political-science/
[9] PSIR 217) Important Quotes Compilation for Political Science & IR https://www.studocu.com/in/document/university-of-delhi/political-science/217-sarkari-professor-psir-quote-kit/107020761
[10] Political science – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_science
[11] Political Science Quotes https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/political-science
[12] Famous Quotes on Politics: TOK Optional Themes https://buytokessay.com/blog/famous-quotes-on-politics/