Political Science 101 -- EXAM 1

What is politics?

Politics is the process of determining "who gets what, when, and how" (Harold Lasswell). It involves power distribution without violence.

What is political science?

The systematic study of politics, including institutions, behaviors, processes, and outcomes.

How is political science different from politics?

Political science seeks to explain why things happen rather than advocating what should happen.

What is empirical political science?

The study of politics using observable evidence and data (e.g., "Why do certain politicians support specific policies?").

What is normative political science?

The study of how politics should function, focusing on ethical and philosophical questions (e.g., "What type of government is best?").

What were the early focuses of political science?

Ancient political philosophy (Plato, Aristotle) and later focus on law and institutions (Institutionalism).

What was behavioralism?

A mid-20th-century approach that emphasized empirical, scientific analysis of human behavior using data and statistics.

Why was behavioralism criticized?

It ignored ethical issues and real-world relevance.

What are the steps of the research process in political science?

Form a research question

Formulate a hypothesis

Conduct research

Design data analysis

Perform analysis

Draw conclusions

What is quantitative research?

Uses numerical data and statistics (e.g., surveys, polls, election results).

What is qualitative research?

Uses descriptive analysis (e.g., case studies, interviews, historical events).

What is power?

The ability to make others comply with your will.

What is authority?

The recognized right to enforce power.

What is legitimacy?

The acceptance of government authority by the public.

What is a state?

A political organization with governance over a defined territory and population.

What is a nation?

A group of people with shared cultural identity, language, and history.

What is government?

The system of institutions that make and enforce laws.

What did Plato believe?

Advocated for "Philosopher Kings"—wise rulers who govern based on justice.

What did Aristotle believe?

People are "political animals" who naturally form communities. The government should promote the common good.

What was Hobbes' theory?

Without government, life in a "state of nature" is "nasty, brutish, and short." Strong government is necessary.

What did Locke believe?

Government should protect natural rights (life, liberty, property). If it fails, people can overthrow it.

What is classical liberalism?

Advocates for individual freedom, limited government, and free markets.

What is modern liberalism?

Supports government intervention to promote social welfare and reduce inequality.

What is conservatism?

Emphasizes tradition, stability, and gradual change.

What is socialism?

Advocates for collective ownership and redistribution to reduce economic inequality.

What is communism?

A classless society with no private property, as advocated by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels.

What is fascism?

Prioritizes the state over individuals, supports nationalism and authoritarianism.

What is feminism?

Advocates for gender equality and challenges patriarchal systems.

What are the three branches of government?

Legislative (Congress): Makes laws, controls spending, declares war.

Executive (President & Bureaucracy): Enforces laws, commands military, manages government agencies

Judicial (Supreme Court & Courts): Interprets laws and ensures constitutional compliance.

How are U.S. presidential elections conducted?

Through the Electoral College, where citizens vote for electors who select the President.

What factors influence voting behavior?

Partisanship, ideology, demographics, media influence.

What role does media play in politics?

Acts as a watchdog, informs the public, and influences political opinions.