Difference Between Political Science and Politics

Political Science vs Politics

Political science and Politics are two words that are often confused when it comes to their meaning. Actually there is some difference between the two words. Political science deals with the science of politics. On the other hand, politics refers to the affairs of the state. This is the main difference between political science and politics.

Political science deals with the origin of politics, forms of government in various countries, the various rights of people in a country, the role of the ruling party and the opposition party, and such other topics. On the other hand, the word ‘politics’ refers to the state of affairs of a country. The affairs of a country are of course directed towards the welfare of its countrymen.

The word ‘politics’ is used figuratively nowadays exactly in the opposite sense. If a move is not explicable by the commoner then it is termed a political move. That, which is incomprehensible is often called political in sense. Sometimes, the word ‘politics’ refers to political principles.

Political science, on the other hand, deals with the theory and practice of politics. It analyses the various political systems across the globe all through the different centuries. Political events and conditions are often given importance in the study of political science.

In fact, it can be said that political science integrates itself with other branches of knowledge as well, including, anthropology, economics, international relations, sociology, history, and law. It is interesting to note that political science has relevance to psychology and comparative politics, as well.

A person who is adept in the knowledge of political science is often referred to by the name ‘political scientist’. On the other hand, a person who is adept in politics and administration is often called by the name, ‘politician’.