NATURE OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

PRERNA FOR IAS

NATURE OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

1. Why Political Science is Scientific

Political Science is regarded as a scientific discipline because it follows a systematic and logical method of studying political institutions, processes, and human behaviour. It relies on observation, collection of facts, analysis, and verification rather than assumptions or personal opinions. Political scientists examine voting patterns, public opinion, political participation, and government functioning using empirical evidence. The subject seeks to explain political events, establish general principles, and predict future trends based on available data. Although human behaviour is complex and constantly changing, Political Science applies scientific techniques to make its findings objective, reliable, and useful for understanding governance and public policy.

2. Steps in the Scientific Method

The scientific method in Political Science follows four essential steps: observation, generalization, explanation, and prediction. Observation involves collecting facts through experience and research. Generalization identifies common patterns and relationships among political events using inductive or deductive reasoning. Explanation provides logical reasons for these patterns and helps understand political behaviour and institutions. Prediction uses established principles to anticipate future political developments and recommend suitable policies. These steps make political analysis systematic, objective, and evidence-based. Although predictions in Political Science may not always be exact due to changing human behaviour, the scientific method improves the accuracy and credibility of political research.

3. Observation

Observation is the first stage of the scientific method in Political Science. It involves carefully collecting facts through direct experience, surveys, interviews, documents, elections, and political events. Observation depends on objective evidence rather than beliefs, emotions, or supernatural explanations. Political scientists observe voting behaviour, public opinion, government policies, and political institutions to gather reliable information. Accurate observation provides the foundation for scientific analysis and helps identify patterns in political life. Since conclusions are based on verified facts, observation increases the objectivity and credibility of research. It is the starting point for developing theories and understanding political realities.

4. Generalization