What is the difference between political science and politics?
Political Science
Political science is an academic discipline that studies the theory and practice of politics and government. It is a social science that focuses on the analysis of political systems, institutions, behaviors, and policies. Political science aims to provide a systematic understanding of political phenomena and seeks to develop theories and frameworks to explain political processes.
Politics
Politics, on the other hand, refers to the activities, actions, and decisions that are involved in gaining and holding power in a government or in influencing the government. It is the practice of exercising and contesting power, often through processes such as elections, lobbying, and policymaking. Politics is a broad term that encompasses the day-to-day activities and interactions of individuals, groups, and institutions within the political system.
Differences
While political science and politics are closely related, there are some key differences between the two:
Focus:
- Political science focuses on the study and analysis of political systems, institutions, behaviors, and policies. It seeks to understand the underlying principles and theories that govern political processes.
- Politics, on the other hand, is concerned with the practical application of political science. It involves the real-world activities, actions, and decisions that shape and influence political systems.
Academic Discipline vs. Practice:
- Political science is an academic discipline taught at universities and colleges. It involves rigorous research, analysis, and the development of theories and frameworks to explain political phenomena.
- Politics, on the other hand, is a practical field that involves the exercise of power and the implementation of policies. It is driven by the pursuit of power, the formation of alliances, and the negotiation of interests.
Scope:
- Political science has a broader scope as it encompasses various subfields such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, public policy, and political economy. It studies political systems and phenomena across different countries and regions.
- Politics, on the other hand, has a narrower scope as it focuses on the specific activities and decisions related to gaining and holding power within a particular government or influencing the government.
Application:
- Political science provides a foundation for understanding political systems and processes, which can be applied in various fields such as government, public administration, diplomacy, international relations, and research institutions.
- Politics is applied in practical settings, such as political campaigns, governance, policymaking, advocacy, and political activism.
In summary, political science is an academic discipline that studies political systems, institutions, behaviors, and policies, while politics refers to the practical activities and decisions involved in gaining and holding power or influencing the government. Political science provides the theoretical framework and understanding that underpins politics and its practical applications.