Political Science An introduction

Politics and change Political Science: the branch of knowledge that deals with the state and systems of government; the scientific analysis of political activity and behavior. Politics: the activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power

Governments Public Policy is the formal mechanism or structure through which we collectively make and implement public choices. Public Policy is the courses of action, regulatory measures, laws, and funding priorities that determine how wealth and power are distributed in the society, like our income, our safety, our access to clean water, medicine, & education, and even our life expectancy.

Politics and change Some textbooks argue that “studying politics involves studying change.” Do you agree? What about politics involves change?

Governments resisting change Sometimes, governments do not serve society’s needs, particularly in rapidly changing times. If a government fails to adjust to society’s changes, people will organize outside of it in an effort to force it to act (through social movements). People may even fight the government (through revolution).

Political actors Governments are major political actors, but they aren’t the only ones. Who else are?

Political actors Individuals, neighborhoods, interest groups, political parties, news media, business interests, professional associations, international organizations, etc. What type of political actions do they engage in?

Types of political activities Elections Law making Lobbying Politics includes activities that are legal and illegal, local and global, ordinary and dramatic. Campaigns Demonstrations

Importance of politics Why is Politics is important? It’s how we live in common, regardless of if we live in a free democratic society or if we live under the Taliban or the Nazis. It manages the distribution of resources – the benefits and the burdens in the society.