Political Science Methods
A method in political science focusing on the various arenas or settings in which political processes and interactions occur, such as legislatures, courts, and public opinion.
Arena Approach
The organization and system by which a community or nation is governed, encompassing institutions and officials responsible for making and enforcing laws.
Government
Established and officially recognized structures within a political system, such as legislatures, courts, and executive bodies.
Formal Institutions
The supreme authority of a state to govern itself and make its own laws without external interference.
Sovereignty
A system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through elected representatives.
Democracy
A method that examines the political processes and stages through which policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated, emphasizing the sequence and interactions involved.
Process Approach
The processes and interactions through which institutions, both formal and informal, manage public affairs and make decisions in society.
Governance
Unwritten rules, norms, and practices that influence political behavior and interactions, such as cultural norms or social networks.
Informal Institutions
The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law that is fairly applied and enforced.
Rule of Law
A system of government where a single ruler holds all power and authority, often without the consent of the governed.
Autocracy
A research method in political science that involves comparing political systems or phenomena across different contexts to identify patterns and differences.
Comparative Method
The act of exercising authority or control over a political entity or organization, including the formulation and implementation of policies.
Governing
Organized groups of people with similar political beliefs and objectives who seek to influence government policy and hold political office.
Political Parties
The practice of making government actions, decisions, and processes open and accessible to the public to ensure accountability and reduce corruption.
Transparency
A form of government in which the country is considered a public matter, and the head of state is elected rather than a monarch.
Republic