Traditions in the development of Political science.

The Study of Political Traditions in Political Science

The purpose of political science is to develop and disseminate knowledge about government and politics. To do so requires that these aspects of society be studied systematically. Political scientists are expected to strive for objectivity, by considering alternate hypotheses and incorporating all the evidence that is available. While absolute objectivity is unattainable, and important data can be missed, some political science studies are more rigorous than others.

While developing a more comprehensive understanding of politics and government is important for its own sake, as acquiring knowledge about the world is fundamental to human fulfillment, it is also important to help us in our attempts to reduce conflict, improve governance and achieve social justice. Developing an understanding of plausible causes of war, political oppression and government corruption can enable effective reforms to be proposed. On the other hand, misunderstanding political and governmental processes can result in flawed policies and counterproductive political activities.

Political science obviously cannot be as rigorous as the physical sciences, such as physics or chemistry, because it concerns phenomena pertaining to human beings – who can influence research about themselves. However, certain methods can increase understanding over time. Two of the most significant methods are historical analysis and comparative approaches. By developing synchronic and diachronic studies, a certain amount of control can be exerted over the study of political systems.2 Significant variables can be identified and implausible explanations discarded, enabling more convincing accounts of politics and government to emerge.

Use of these methods also necessitates a clarification of concepts to ensure standardized usage in the discipline. When studying political systems, it is important that similar elements are identified. In this way, like can be compared with like. As one introductory political science textbook explains, “it is vital that we establish a common language as students of political studies so that we can avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and make our dialogue more effective and efficient”.

While being an important aspect of political science in general, historical analysis, in particular, is seen as necessary for the study of aboriginal politics. This, because colonization, and the resulting conflict between aboriginal and non-aboriginal peoples, is rooted in history. Furthermore, many decolonization proposals by political scientists promote a revitalization of aboriginal political traditions.

Дата добавления: 2015-11-13