Yes, political science is generally considered a social science.
Political science seeks to understand and explain political phenomena through systematic observation, analysis, and the development of theories. While it may not always conform perfectly to the model of a "hard" science like physics or chemistry, it employs scientific methodologies to study topics such as:
- Political Systems: Analyzing the structure and function of governments, political parties, and interest groups.
- Political Behavior: Examining voting behavior, public opinion, and political participation.
- Political Theory: Exploring fundamental questions about justice, power, and legitimacy.
- International Relations: Studying the interactions between states and other actors in the international arena.
- Public Policy: Evaluating the effectiveness and impact of government policies.
How Political Science Employs Scientific Methods
Although dealing with complex human behavior and institutions, political scientists strive for objectivity and rigor. They use various research methods, including:
- Quantitative Analysis: Employing statistical techniques to analyze large datasets and identify patterns and relationships. This might involve survey research, experiments, or analyzing election results.
- Qualitative Analysis: Conducting case studies, interviews, and historical analysis to gain in-depth understanding of specific political phenomena.
- Formal Modeling: Developing mathematical models to represent political processes and make predictions.
Challenges to Calling Political Science a "Science"
The classification of political science as a science is not without debate. Some argue that the inherent complexity of political phenomena, the influence of values and ideology, and the difficulty of conducting controlled experiments make it challenging to achieve the same level of certainty as in the natural sciences. However, political scientists actively work to mitigate these challenges through methodological rigor and transparency.
The Historical Perspective
As the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy notes, the study of politics dates back thousands of years, with figures like Plato and Aristotle laying the groundwork for the discipline. Their focus on understanding the state and promoting the common good reflects the enduring concerns of political science.
In conclusion, while debates exist regarding the degree to which political science aligns with traditional scientific models, its use of systematic methods and its pursuit of empirical knowledge firmly place it within the realm of the social sciences.
