political science
definition:
Political science is the study of governments, public
policies and political processes, systems, and political behavior.
Political science subfields include political
theory, political economy, policy studies and analysis, comparative politics,
international relations, and a host of related fields.
Political
scientists use both humanistic and scientific perspectives and tools and a
variety of methodological approaches to examine the process, systems, and
political dynamics of all countries and regions of the
world.
Is politics a science?
The claim of a social science to be treated as a full-fledged science
, has been an issue most perplexing to the students. The word ‘science’ is , no
doubt , inserted in the title of politics; certain scholars , however , refuse
to consider it as a science on the grounds that its premises are not as valid
as their counterparts in physical sciences. No doubt , the subject and the
issue of politics are so intricate and diverse that unanimity can hardly be
seen in the view points of different theorist. Moreover , traditional mode of
scientific enquiry and research is not directly applicable to fact-finding in
the realm of politics. In order to have a clear appraisal of the nature of this
science , it is appropriate to explain the term science.
WHAT IS SCIENCE?
The term science is applied to the composition of consistent
propositions which have been deduced on the basis of impartial study and
observation. The conclusions based on scientific enquiry , are so compiles that
sequence cause and effect remains consistent. Moreover , these premises are
valid of universal character at all times and for all places. The natural
sciences such as physics , chemistry , biology etc., can be termed as sciences , because their
dictums and research methodology is purely of scientific character. The law of
gravitation or the composition of water , for instance , depicts certain laws
which hold good for all times.
IMPERFECT SCIENCE:
Political science cannot be considered as a science in aforesaid
meanings , as there are notable variations in political concepts and political
environments. It is difficult to anticipate future course action , as
multi-factors and cross-currents upset the flow of circumstances sometimes
quite abruptly. The underline motives and interests that shape political
behavior and attitude , are of divergent types and they affect the working of
political institutions in different manners This account for the absence of
finality in political dictums.
DIVERGENT
OPINIONS:
Sometimes divergent
views are found among different political scientists on the same issue. Jhon S. Mill
, for example , believes in the principle of one nation one state’ as
necessary safeguard of liberty. Whereas Lord Acton an equally high authority
on the subject , postulates multi-nation polity as a symbol of civilized way of
life. Multitude of ideas and different can also be traced in regard to the form
of government. Some political theorists praise parliamentary system while
certain other prefer presidential sustem. Solid arguments are advanced in
support of their respective views from both sides. The difference and
variations in the structures and processes of governments ay different
historical phases , is especially noble. Consequently , a subject that has to
deal with such uncertain environments , can’t claim universality and
definiteness. Lord Bryce considers political science as an imperfect science in
the same sense as Marshal called economics as the science of waves.
Arguments against :
The arguments that
are opposed to consider political science as a true science , are the
following.
1.lack of Consensus on Nature of Political
Science:
There is no agreement among political
scientists as to its methods, principles and conclusions.The writers of
politics do not adopt any one method in the field of political enquiry and
research.
2. No Certainty and Universality
in the Laws of Political Science:
It lacks uniform principles or laws that are
universally valid. The generalisations of the natural sciences are frequently
described as laws. But the generalisations put forward by social sciences
including Political Science are endlessly disputed as they do not possess the
same degree of certainty or universality. At best, they are 'tendencies', not
'laws'.
3. No Predictability:
The political behaviour of man is
unpredictable and hence it is difficult to arrive at exact and definite views
and conclusions. Generalisations in social sciences lack the quality of
predictability which is regarded as a major characteristic of the 'laws' of
natural sciences. The latter make forecasts about future developments possible.
4. No Law of Cause and Effect:
There are many laws in natural science - a
particular cause will lead to a particular effect. But this does not happen in
Political Science. There is no certainty that the factors which caused the
French Revolution of 1789 will lead to a similar revolution in another country.
5. Not Possible to Conduct
Experiments in any Laboratory:
It is impossible to apply to Political Science
rigorous scientific methods of investigation. General statements are difficult
to establish because of the problem of their verifiability. "Political phenomena
are characterized by uncertainty, variableness and a lack of order and
continuity."
Laboratory
experiments are not possible in Political Science as in the case of Physics or
Chemistry. Social phenomena based on human behaviour are constantly undergoing
change and are more difficult to control. Political Science is primarily a
science of observation, and not of experiment.
6. No Neutrality and Objectivity:
Objectivity which characterizes the study of
physical sciences is lacking in political studies. Political scientists cannot
take a totally impartial, value neutral attitude in dealing with political
issues and affairs. The subjective bias of the political observer colours his
judgment of political problems and his findings may be one-sided.
Arguments in support:
political science can claim to be a science in a sense of scientific
method of enquiry and research based on observation , experimentation and
empirical verification of facts , is fully adopted. Aristotle made a
substantial contribution in the field of scientific research in the realm of
political and considered it a Master cience Later, some German scholars also
enrich this subject through their intellectual contribution. Most of the
scholars are of the view that the science of state can be developed as a
full-fledged science, through continuous research and perfection of its
techniques. Through the adoption of scientific techniques of research , multi
principles of universal character , can be developed in the field of this science. The researcher is
not handicapped by the paucity of data in this context.
Historical events and contemporary
realities provide him with ample material for data collection . the
whole world is appears to be a
laboratory for the students of politics , feeding his observation and enriching
his information. Aristotle drew up the conclusion on the basis of vast
study of political history , that
autocracy and oppression pavers the way for revolutionary changes. This dictum
holds good even at present , as recent historical facts stand an evidence to
this effect.
To illustrate another example , most of the political scientist agree
that exploitation , poverty and depression make the way for dictatorship. This hypothesis can be verified through an
examination of the recent political changes in the contemporary world. Ibn
Khaldon , the celebrated Muslim sociologist and historian , has discovered some
universal laws regulating a cyclic change regarding the origin , rise and fall
of the rule of dynasties. At present , it is admitted on all hands , that
democratic system is the best system evolved so far. Even autocratic regimes ,
in order to legitimize their right to rule , use the cover of democracy .
POLITICS AS
AN ART
An Art determines
practically the dimensions of any task and set its tone. Political science is
an art as it deals with statecraft. The principles of political science , have
been developed not exclusively on the basis of theoretical knowledge ;
observation of facts and the experience gained from the implementation of these
principles, also contribute a lot in this respect. The system of election for
example , can be better appraised and evaluated if actual conduct of election
is minutely observed. Most of the political theorists, have refined their
concepts on the basis of political enquiry made in the routine lifr. Following
are the important aspects of political science to be treated as an art.
Statecraft:
Political science is the science of state and
government , statesmanship is an art, which is acquired through experience.
Most of the books on the politics written during the medieval ages, dealt with
the practical side of policies viz the primary aim of these writers was to
advise the rulers of about government
policies . “the prince” of machially and siyasat nama of nizam-ul-mulk-tusi are
the clear examples.
Convection :
The convection developed within every
political system , from the backbone of the system , despite the fact that
these are nowhere reduced to writing. The convection are not generally the
product of some conscious thinking , they have spontaneous and evolutionary
growth. The success of parliamentary system in Britain , owes a lot to the
constitutional convections.
Experiments and observation:
Maximum importance is attached , at present , to experiments and observation in the field
of political study and research. The premises of politics , can remain in true
with the political trends of the time only if they remain responsive to
environmental settings. The science of politics loses its significance and
validity if is concerned merely with the mechanical application of its norms.
Modern political science incites the students to be flexible in approach and
broad-minded enough to consider new realities and faces new challenges; it
engenders creativity among the researchers. To be a good politician , requires
a knowledge of political concepts and deep insight in the trends of practical
politics. At present research in different branches of political science , is
pragmatic and empirical. Survey , research and statistical techniques , for
instance , are borrowed to predict , on valid grounds , future course of
political action.
Conclusion:
This is an undeniable fact that the science of
state and government , has furnished such concept and norms in the light of
which we can decide which system is most suitable under given condition , it
has also clearly portrayed the essential features and symbols of an ideal
system. As a matter of fact ,it would be unjust to forfeit the claim of
political science to be regarded as a science, simply because it has no
permanent laws of universal character. There exist a science of state and
government that has it independent rules , norms and principles that provide
sufficient guideline to person involve in statecraft.
•
Political Science is a body of systematized
knowledge which can be applied in drafting a constitution, in day to day
administration, in legislation, in foreign policy and above all in bringing
about all round development of the state.
•
Thus
the knowledge of Political Science is made use of by statesmen, diplomats,
administrators, social reformers and activists to achieve their objectives. The
knowledge of Political Science is not merely of theoretical value, but it has
practical utility.
• It will suffice to
say in
conclusion that Political Science is mainly an art.
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