Political Science Chapters 1 & 2 Review Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering basic definitions, key thinkers, study methods, scope, and interdisciplinary relationships from Chapters 1 and 2 of Political Science.

Political Science (General Definition)

The branch of social science that studies the theory, organization, government, and practice of the State.

Aristotle's Definition of Political Science

The study of the polis (state), described as the highest and most inclusive association.

Max Weber's Concept of Political Association

A political association that exercises authority within a territory through legitimate force.

Harold D. Lasswell's Definition of Politics

The study of influence and the influential (power), described as who gets what, when, and how.

Smith & Zurcher's Definition of Political Science

The branch of social science dealing with the theory, organization, government, and practice of the state.

Historical Method

A method of studying political institutions through history, using past events to explain present and predict future developments.

Scientific Method

A systematic method in political science that involves collecting facts, organizing facts, forming hypotheses, testing hypotheses, and developing theory.

Empirical Method

A method based on observation and experience, such as Aristotle's classification of governments and Montesquieu's Separation of Powers.

Theoretical Method

A method that uses political theories of famous philosophers and applies classical ideas to modern political issues.

Juridical Method

A method of study focusing on laws, the constitution, legal rights, and government institutions.

Geographical Method

A method studying how geography, including territory, climate, resources, and national power, affects politics.

Behavioral Method

A method studying human political behavior, voting, political participation, and public opinion, focusing on what people actually do.

Psychological Method

A method studying human motives, political attitudes, public opinion, and political behavior through psychology.

Sociology vs. Political Science

Sociology is the study of society, whereas Political Science is the study of the state; both examine human relationships and institutions.

Economics (Political Economy)

A social science previously called Political Economy; both Economics and Political Science study taxation, trade, currency, government spending, wealth, and public policies.

Montesquieu

Important political thinker credited with the concept of Separation of Powers.

Charles de Gaulle

Important historical figure who predicted the rise of two superpowers.

Anthropology (Relationship to Political Science)

The study of human culture, society, and social development, which helps explain political authority and social control.