political science

American  

noun

1. a social science dealing with political institutions and with the principles and conduct of government.

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political science British  

noun

1. (esp as an academic subject) the study of the state, government, and politics: one of the social sciences

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political science Cultural  

1. The systematic study of government and politics. Political science is a social science that makes generalizations and analyses about political systems and political behavior and uses these results to predict future behavior. Political science includes the study of political philosophy, ethics, international relations and foreign policy, public administration, and the dynamic relations between different parts of governments.

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Other Word Forms

• political scientist noun

Etymology

Origin of political science

First recorded in 1770–80

Example Sentences

The fatal confrontation reportedly began with disturbances outside a conference at Sciences Po, the highly-regarded French political science institute.

From Salon • Mar. 28, 2026

Today, voters aren’t as interested in identity-based politics, said Fernando Guerra, a professor of political science at Loyola Marymount University who has known Villaraigosa for decades.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 16, 2026

David Azerrad, a political science professor at conservative Hillsdale College, said that "for now, I think the president can continue to ignore the nattering nabobs".

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

"He is more educated, and trained in dealing with political elites and party backrooms," said Mayra Goulart, political science professor at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro.

From Barron's • Mar. 11, 2026

I studied agricultural engineering at Emory, and Anatole was in political science and geography.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Related Words

• civics