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QUESTION ONE

Discuss political science. 20marks

a). Introduction : Meaning of political science

 Political science is the academic discipline that systematically studies the theory and
practice of politics, government, and power. At its core, political science seeks to
understand how political systems operate, how power is distributed and exercised, and
how decisions affecting the public are made. Scholars in this field analyze the structure
and function of political institutions such as governments, parliaments, and courts, as
well as non-governmental organizations and interest groups. By examining the
organization of power within societies, political scientists aim to explain political
behavior, the creation and enforcement of laws, and the management of public resources.
 A second key aspect of political science is its focus on the theories of governance and
political ideologies. This includes the study of political thought, from classical
philosophers like Aristotle and Machiavelli to modern theorists like John Rawls and
Hannah Arendt. Political science critically explores different systems of government—
such as democracy, authoritarianism, and socialism—and analyzes how political
ideologies shape public policies, rights, and freedoms. This theoretical approach provides
a framework for understanding how societies prioritize values such as liberty, equality,
justice, and security in their political decision-making processes.
 Furthermore, political science is also deeply engaged with the study of international
relations and global politics. This branch explores how countries interact with each
other through diplomacy, trade, conflict, and cooperation. Political scientists examine the
role of international organizations (e.g., the United Nations), the impact of globalization,
and issues like war, peace, and human rights. By studying both domestic and
international politics, political science provides insight into how power dynamics operate
at different levels, influencing national policies and global governance structures.
 b). Evolution of political science
The evolution of political science reflects the development of human thought about
power, governance, and societal organization, moving from philosophical inquiries to a
more empirical and structured discipline.
1. Ancient Foundations: Political science can trace its roots to ancient political thought,
particularly through the works of philosophers like Plato and Aristotle in Greece. They
laid the foundation for political inquiry by analyzing different forms of government,
justice, and the ideal state. Aristotle's Politics is considered one of the earliest attempts to
systematically study political systems, focusing on the ethical role of the state and the
classification of political regimes.
2. Medieval and Early Modern Contributions: During the medieval period, political
science evolved through the integration of religious and philosophical ideas, especially
within Christian and Islamic political thought. Thinkers like St. Augustine and Thomas
Aquinas linked political authority to divine will. In the early modern period, theorists
like Niccolò Machiavelli, Hobbes, and John Locke contributed to political science by
shifting the focus toward statecraft, human nature, and the social contract,
influencing ideas about the legitimacy of power and governance, which formed the
intellectual basis for modern political systems.
3. The Enlightenment and Birth of Modern Political Science: The 18th-century
Enlightenment brought a more secular, reason-based approach to political thought, with
philosophers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Montesquieu, and Immanuel Kant
advocating for liberty, democracy, and the rights of individuals. This period also saw the
emergence of constitutional frameworks and the idea of separation of powers.
Political science began to formalize during this time, with scholars emphasizing the need
for rational government structures and the scientific analysis of political behavior.
4. 20th-Century Institutionalization and Behavioralism: In the early 20th century,
political science became more empirical and systematic, especially with the emergence of
behavioralism in the United States, which advocated the study of politics through
observable, quantifiable phenomena like voting behavior and public opinion. Political
science departments were formally established in universities, and the field became more
interdisciplinary, borrowing methodologies from economics, sociology, and psychology.
 Over time, new approaches like rational choice theory, political economy, and feminist
political theory emerged, broadening the scope of political science to include diverse
perspectives and global dynamics.
This evolution of political science reflects its transition from philosophical contemplation
to a scientific discipline that applies both qualitative and quantitative methods to the
study of political systems, governance, and behavior.

c). components of political science

Political Theory: This component focuses on the study of political ideas, values, and
ideologies. Political theory explores fundamental questions about justice, liberty,
equality, rights, and the nature of the state. It includes the analysis of classic works by
philosophers such as Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Marx, as well as
contemporary political thought. Political theorists seek to understand the principles that
should govern political institutions and human behavior within political communities.
1. Comparative Politics: Comparative politics is the systematic study of political systems
across different countries. It compares governments, political institutions, electoral
systems, and policy-making processes to identify patterns, differences, and similarities
between them. This component helps political scientists understand why some countries
have stable democracies while others experience authoritarianism, how political
development occurs, and the factors that influence political stability and change.
2. International Relations: This field examines the interactions between nations and the
global political system. It focuses on issues such as diplomacy, conflict, cooperation, war,
peace, international organizations (like the UN), and global governance. International
relations theory also addresses how global actors, including states, multinational
corporations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), interact and affect
international politics. Scholars analyze power dynamics, foreign policy, and the impact of
global economic and security issues.
3. Public Administration: Public administration deals with the implementation of
government policies and the management of public institutions. It focuses on how
 government agencies operate, how public resources are allocated, and how services are
delivered to the public. Public administration also involves the study of bureaucracy,
public budgeting, human resource management, and the design of public policies. This
component seeks to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability of
government institutions.
4. Political Economy: Political economy analyzes the relationship between politics and
economics, focusing on how political decisions and institutions affect economic policies
and outcomes. It looks at how economic forces influence political behavior and decisions,
such as how governments regulate markets, manage resources, and respond to economic
crises. Political economy also examines the distribution of wealth, the role of
international trade, globalization, and the impact of economic inequality on political
stability and social justice.

c). Reasons why Political science is often regarded as a science .

Empirical Research Methods: Political science employs empirical research methods to

gather data and analyze political behavior, institutions, and processes. Scholars use
quantitative techniques, such as surveys and statistical analysis, as well as qualitative
methods, like case studies and interviews, to test hypotheses and draw conclusions about
political phenomena. This reliance on empirical evidence aligns with the scientific
method, where observations lead to theories that can be tested and refined.
1. Theoretical Frameworks: Political science develops and utilizes various theoretical
frameworks to explain political behavior and outcomes. These theories—such as rational
choice theory, institutionalism, and behavioralism—provide systematic explanations of
how and why political processes occur. By formulating theories that can be tested against
empirical data, political scientists contribute to a body of knowledge that enhances
understanding of political dynamics, similar to the way theories are developed and
validated in other scientific fields.
2. Objectivity and Systematic Analysis: Political science aims for objectivity in its
analysis, striving to minimize biases and subjective interpretations. Scholars seek to
 apply systematic and rigorous approaches to study political phenomena, employing
methodologies that allow for replicability and verification of results. This commitment to
objective analysis aligns political science with the principles of scientific inquiry, where
findings should be based on evidence and subject to peer review.
3. Interdisciplinary Approaches: Political science often intersects with other disciplines,
such as economics, sociology, psychology, and anthropology. By integrating insights and
methodologies from these fields, political scientists enhance their analytical frameworks
and deepen their understanding of political behavior and systems. This interdisciplinary
approach mirrors scientific practices in which diverse fields collaborate to explore
complex phenomena, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of political issues.
4. Predictive Capability: Political science aims not only to understand and explain political
behavior but also to predict future political events and trends. By analyzing patterns and
establishing causal relationships, political scientists can make informed predictions about
electoral outcomes, policy changes, and social movements. This ability to forecast
political phenomena based on established theories and empirical data reinforces the
scientific character of the discipline, akin to predictive capabilities in natural sciences.
These reasons demonstrate how political science embodies the principles of scientific
inquiry, employing rigorous methods, theories, and analytical frameworks to study and
understand the complexities of political life.

d). The concepts of power, authority, and charisma.

The three concepts are interconnected and play crucial roles in understanding how
political systems function and how leaders influence their followers. Here’s a breakdown
of their relationship:
1. Power
Power is a fundamental concept in political science that refers to the ability of individuals
or groups to influence or control the behavior of others. It can manifest in various forms,
such as coercive power (the use of force), economic power (control over resources), or
 social power (influence based on status or networks). Power is not always
institutionalized and can be exercised informally in social settings or through personal
relationships.
2. Authority
Authority refers to the legitimate right to exercise power. Unlike power, which can be
obtained through force or manipulation, authority is recognized and accepted by those
who are subject to it. Authority can be categorized into three types, as described by
sociologist Max Weber:
 Traditional Authority: Based on established customs and practices, such as monarchies
or tribal leadership.
 Legal-Rational Authority: Based on established laws and rules, such as in democratic
states where authority is derived from legal frameworks.
 Charismatic Authority: Based on the personal qualities and leadership abilities of an
individual, often resulting in strong emotional connections with followers.
3. Charisma
Charisma is a personal quality that enables an individual to attract and inspire followers.
Charismatic leaders often possess exceptional communication skills, confidence, and the
ability to articulate a vision that resonates with their audience. Charisma can lead to the
establishment of charismatic authority, where the leader's power is derived from their
perceived extraordinary characteristics rather than from formal positions or traditional
norms.
Relationship Among the Three Concepts
The relationship among power, authority, and charisma can be summarized as follows:
 Power and Authority: While power can exist without legitimacy (for example, through
coercion), authority requires recognition and acceptance by others. A leader may have
power over individuals through fear or manipulation, but to maintain stable governance,
they often need to establish authority based on legitimacy. Legal-rational authority is
particularly significant in democratic contexts, where power is exercised within the
framework of established laws.
 Authority and Charisma: Charismatic authority is unique because it derives from the
leader's personal attributes rather than institutional structures. Charismatic leaders can
 mobilize followers through their vision and appeal, often challenging traditional or legal-
rational forms of authority. However, charismatic authority can be unstable; it often relies
heavily on the presence and popularity of the leader, and may weaken or collapse if the
leader fails to maintain their charisma.
 Power and Charisma: Charisma can enhance a leader's power by inspiring loyalty and
commitment among followers, making it easier for them to mobilize support and enact
their vision. However, charisma alone may not guarantee sustained power; it must be
supported by effective governance and legitimacy to ensure long-term influence. If a
charismatic leader fails to deliver on their promises, their power can quickly diminish.

e). Relevances of political science:

1. Understanding Governance and Political Systems: Political science helps individuals

comprehend how various political systems operate, including democracies, authoritarian
regimes, and hybrid systems. By studying different forms of governance, political
scientists can analyze how laws are made, how power is exercised, and how political
institutions function. This understanding is essential for citizens to engage effectively in
democratic processes and advocate for better governance.
2. Informed Citizenship and Political Participation: A core relevance of political science
is its role in promoting informed citizenship. By providing knowledge about political
processes, institutions, and rights, political science educates citizens about their
responsibilities and empowers them to participate actively in political life. This includes
voting, engaging in public debates, and advocating for policy changes. An informed
electorate is crucial for the health of any democracy.
3. Analysis of Political Behavior: Political science examines the behaviors of individuals
and groups in the political arena, including voting patterns, party affiliations, and public
opinion. By analyzing these behaviors, political scientists can identify trends, predict
electoral outcomes, and understand the motivations behind political actions. This analysis
aids in developing strategies for political campaigns, policymaking, and social
movements.
4. Policy Development and Evaluation: Political science is essential in the formulation,
implementation, and evaluation of public policies. Political scientists study the impact of
policies on society, assessing their effectiveness and identifying areas for improvement.
This relevance is crucial for governments, organizations, and NGOs seeking to address
societal challenges, from healthcare and education to economic development and
environmental protection.
5. Global Perspectives and International Relations: In an increasingly interconnected
world, political science offers critical insights into international relations and global
issues. By studying the interactions between countries, political scientists analyze issues
such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, trade, and international organizations.
Understanding these dynamics is essential for addressing global challenges like climate
change, terrorism, and human rights, making political science relevant for policymakers
and citizens alike.