8 Questions
What is the primary focus of Comparative Politics as a branch of Political Science?
The similarities and differences between political systems, institutions, and processes across countries
What is the definition of power in the context of Political Science?
The ability to influence the behavior of others
Which political science method focuses on in-depth analysis of case studies, texts, and observations?
Qualitative Methods
What is the primary focus of International Relations as a branch of Political Science?
The interactions between nations, including diplomacy, conflict, and global governance
What is the definition of authority in the context of Political Science?
The legitimate right to exercise power
Which theory assumes individuals make rational decisions based on self-interest?
Rational Choice Theory
What is the definition of institution in the context of Political Science?
A formal organization or structure that shapes political behavior
What is the primary focus of Public Policy as a branch of Political Science?
The development, implementation, and evaluation of government policies and programs
Study Notes
What is Political Science?
- The study of politics, government, and public policy
- Examines the distribution and exercise of power, influence, and authority
- Analyzes the behavior of individuals, groups, and institutions within political systems
Branches of Political Science
- Political Theory: Examines the foundations and values of political systems, including concepts like justice, equality, and democracy
- Comparative Politics: Studies the similarities and differences between political systems, institutions, and processes across countries
- International Relations: Examines the interactions between nations, including diplomacy, conflict, and global governance
- Public Policy: Analyzes the development, implementation, and evaluation of government policies and programs
- American Politics: Focuses on the political system, institutions, and processes of the United States
Key Concepts
- Power: The ability to influence the behavior of others
- Authority: The legitimate right to exercise power
- Institution: A formal organization or structure that shapes political behavior
- Political Culture: The shared values, beliefs, and practices that shape political attitudes and behavior
- Civil Society: The sphere of voluntary associations, organizations, and institutions outside of the state
Political Science Methods
- Qualitative Methods: Focus on in-depth analysis of case studies, texts, and observations
- Quantitative Methods: Use statistical analysis and data to test hypotheses and understand political phenomena
- Comparative Methods: Compare and contrast political systems, institutions, and processes across countries
Theories and Approaches
- Rational Choice Theory: Assumes individuals make rational decisions based on self-interest
- Institutionalism: Emphasizes the role of institutions in shaping political behavior
- Constructivism: Examines how political actors and institutions create and shape political reality
- Behavioralism: Focuses on the psychological and social factors that influence political behavior
What is Political Science?
- Political science is the study of politics, government, and public policy
- It examines the distribution and exercise of power, influence, and authority
- It analyzes the behavior of individuals, groups, and institutions within political systems
Branches of Political Science
Political Theory
- Examines the foundations and values of political systems
- Covers concepts like justice, equality, and democracy
Comparative Politics
- Studies the similarities and differences between political systems
- Examines institutions and processes across countries
International Relations
- Examines the interactions between nations
- Covers diplomacy, conflict, and global governance
Public Policy
- Analyzes the development, implementation, and evaluation of government policies
- Examines programs and their impact on society
American Politics
- Focuses on the political system, institutions, and processes of the United States
Key Concepts
Power and Authority
- Power: the ability to influence the behavior of others
- Authority: the legitimate right to exercise power
Institutions and Culture
- Institution: a formal organization or structure that shapes political behavior
- Political Culture: the shared values, beliefs, and practices that shape political attitudes and behavior
Civil Society
- The sphere of voluntary associations, organizations, and institutions outside of the state
Political Science Methods
Qualitative Methods
- Focus on in-depth analysis of case studies, texts, and observations
Quantitative Methods
- Use statistical analysis and data to test hypotheses
- Understand political phenomena through data analysis
Comparative Methods
- Compare and contrast political systems, institutions, and processes across countries
Theories and Approaches
Rational Choice Theory
- Assumes individuals make rational decisions based on self-interest
Institutionalism
- Emphasizes the role of institutions in shaping political behavior
Constructivism
- Examines how political actors and institutions create and shape political reality
Behavioralism
- Focuses on the psychological and social factors that influence political behavior
This quiz covers the basics of political science, including the study of politics, government, and public policy, as well as its various branches.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
