Unit 1 - Understanding Political Theory
Unit 1 - Understanding Political Theory
1.1 INTRODUCTION
Its expanding breadth is also explained by political science. Its scope include the study of the state, the
research of the political system, the study of the government, the study of power, the study of the
individual and his political behavior, and the study of political concerns that either directly or indirectly
affect politics. Political institutions (such as the State, Government, Judiciary, Parliament, Pressure groups,
Political Parties, etc.), Political behaviour, and Human activities, among other things, are the subject matter
of political science, which is a branch of social science that addresses the political issues that affect people.
Additionally, it has connections with other social science disciplines including history, sociology,
philosophy, economics, etc.
Most people believe that Aristotle (384-322 BCE), who introduced empirical observation into the study of
politics, was the discipline's true founder. Some have claimed that Plato (428/427-348/347 BCE), whose
ideal of a stable republic still yields insights and metaphors, was the first political scientist.
Politics at the municipal, state, national, and international levels are the main topics of study in political
science. We are committed to advancing modes of inquiry that support citizenship as well as
understandings of the institutions, behaviors, and relationships that make up public life.
1.6 EXERCISES
1. What are the fundamental definitions of political science, and how have they evolved over time?
2. How does political science distinguish itself from other social sciences in terms of its focus and
methodology?
3. In what ways does political science intersect with fields like economics, sociology, and history?
4. How do different political theorists define the core objectives of political science?
5. What are the primary concepts and terms central to understanding political science?
6. What are the primary areas of study within political science?
7. How does the empirical nature of political science contribute to its study and analysis?
8. In what ways does normative political theory differ from empirical political science?
9. How do quantitative and qualitative methods complement each other in political science research?
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