Political Science 15 Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Topic: Introduction to Political Science and Government
• Opening Visual: Painting of Thomas Jefferson and the drafting committee of the Declaration of Independence
• Primary Reading: Barnes et al. American Government textbook, Chapter 1

Definition of Political Science

• Modern Discipline: A relatively new field in higher education, developed in the late 19th century in the U.S.
• General Definition: The study of politics, systems of government, and political behavior
• Origins: Traces back to Plato and Aristotle in ancient Athens

Subfields of Political Science

1. American Politics
   • Focuses on institutions like US Congress, Presidency, and state governments
2. Political Theory
   • Explores theoretical questions like justice, best forms of government
3. Comparative Politics
   • Compares political systems across different countries
4. International Relations (IR)
   • Studies interactions between countries, international organizations (UN, EU)
5. Political Economy
   • Examines global economy in the context of international politics
6. Behavioral Politics
   • Focuses on political behavior of actors (voters, politicians) through demographics

Key Political Concepts

• Politics: Struggle over power and influence in organizations
• Institutions: Organizations performing societal functions (e.g., government bodies)
• Government: Ultimate authority in making societal decisions

Types of Government

1. Totalitarian Regime
   • Controls all aspects of life; e.g., Nazi Germany, Stalin's USSR
2. Authoritarian Regime
   • Ruler controls government; social/economic institutions may not be controlled (e.g., Chile under Pinochet)
3. Monarchy
   • Rule by one person (often hereditary); e.g., ancient Israel
4. Theocracy
   • Rule by religious leaders; e.g., Iran
5. Oligarchy
   • Rule by a few; e.g., modern Russia
6. Democracy
   • Rule by the people; e.g., U.S., Canada

Purpose of Government

• To prevent chaos and anarchy, as theorized by Hobbes and Locke
• Balance between security/order and freedom/liberty

Authority and Legitimacy

• Authority: Right to enforce decisions
• Legitimacy: Accepted power of government by people and other nations

Types of Democracies

1. Direct Democracy
   • Political decisions made directly by people (e.g., ancient Athens)
2. Republic
   • Sovereign power rests with the people, electing representatives
3. Representative Democracy
   • Elected leaders make/enforce laws; monarchy may be ceremonial

Conclusion and Course Overview

• Focus: Introduction to U.S. politics and government structures

• California Politics: Unique aspects compared to other states

• Encouragement to consider elements influencing U.S. politics: Constitution, institutions, socialization, and public participation