THE METHODS OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

• Political science employs various methods for the study of political institutions and problems. These methods include the experimental, historical, comparative, analytical, psychological, juridical, philosophic, sociological, and biological methods.
• Experimental Method:

  This method involves conducting experiments to discover the most effective political actions or mechanisms under specific conditions. It aims for an inductive process to find general political truths, but the social nature of politics makes absolute conclusions challenging.
• Historical Method:

  This method studies the origin and development of political institutions and practices. It emphasizes understanding how institutions came to be, evaluating past experiences to inform present decisions.
• Comparative Method:

  This method involves studying contemporary or historical political institutions in different countries to draw general conclusions. Caution is needed to account for differences in conditions and cultural factors.
• Analytical Method:

  The analytical method dissects political institutions into parts, studying their interrelation. It provides a detailed examination of each component.
• Psychological Method:

  This method studies the psychological aspects of political phenomena, focusing on the emotions and motivations behind political movements and actions.
• Juridical Method:

  The juridical method treats society as a legal regime, analyzing public law, rights, and obligations. It focuses on legal relations within the government and between officials and citizens.
• Philosophic Method:

  The philosophic method involves envisioning ideal political institutions and practices. It allows political thinkers to develop their idealized concepts.
• Sociological and Biological Method:

  This method views the state as a social organism and analyzes political phenomena from a sociological and biological perspective.
• Combined Approach:

  Political investigations benefit from a combination of these methods. No single method is sufficient, and an integrated approach provides the most comprehensive understanding of political issues.