Definition

1. Noun:
   • The academic discipline that systematically studies government, political processes, political behavior, and political systems: It involves the analysis of the theory and practice of politics, power, and governance at various levels, from local to international.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She majored in political science and later worked for a government agency.
  • Understanding voting patterns is a core topic in political science.
  • The professor published a groundbreaking article in the field of political science.

Advanced Usage

• "applied political science": The use of political science theories and methods to address practical, real-world political problems and policy issues.
  • His work in applied political science focused on improving voter turnout in urban areas.

Variants and Related Words

• Political scientist (n): A scholar or expert who studies and conducts research in the field of political science.

  • The political scientist was interviewed about the election results.

• Pol sci (n, informal): A common abbreviation for "political science," often used in academic contexts.

  • I have a pol sci lecture this afternoon.

Synonyms

• Government (in an academic context): Often used interchangeably in course titles (e.g., Department of Government).
• Politics (as an academic field): Can refer to the same discipline, though sometimes with a slightly different emphasis on theory vs. practice.

Related Phrases

• Comparative politics: A subfield of political science that analyzes and compares different political systems.

  • Her research in comparative politics examines democracies in Europe and Asia.

• Political theory: A subfield of political science concerned with the philosophical and normative foundations of political institutions and behavior.

  • He specializes in political theory, focusing on the works of John Locke.

Noun

1. the study of government of states and other political units