Overview

Political science is the study of governments, political institutions, public policy, and the behavior of political actors. This topic covers U.S. and comparative systems, civil liberties, voting behavior, and international relations to help explain how power is organized and exercised locally and globally.

Key Themes and Concepts

• U.S. Government and Constitution: Structure, separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism, and constitutional interpretation.
• Institutions: Roles and powers of Congress, presidency, judiciary, and bureaucracy.
• Civil Rights and Liberties: Bill of Rights, equal protection, due process, major Supreme Court cases, and civil rights movements.
• Political Behavior: Voting, public opinion, political culture, political socialization, and participation.
• Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Media: Influence on elections, policy-making, and public discourse.
• Comparative Politics: Types of regimes (democracy, authoritarianism), electoral systems, and institutional differences across nations.
• International Relations: Diplomacy, conflict, cooperation, international organizations (UN, NATO), and global issues (climate, trade, security).
• Political Science Methods: Use of empirical data, comparative analysis, and theoretical models to study power and policy.

Quick Tip

Politics is about power—who has it, how it's used, and how it's limited. Understanding institutions, rights, and behavior helps explain why systems succeed, struggle, or change over time.