Political science is the study of politics, governance, and power. A degree in this area can lead to a range of careers. One important subfield within political science is comparative politics, which focuses on the systematic comparison of political systems, institutions, and behaviors across different countries. By examining similarities and differences between political systems, comparative politics helps us understand how different countries govern themselves and how political decisions are made.
One key concept within comparative politics is affective polarization. Affective polarization can be defined as the simultaneous presence of affinity toward one's own party and fellow partisans (in-group) and hostility toward members of opposing parties (out-group). This phenomenon has become increasingly prevalent in many democracies around the world, leading to heightened political tensions and gridlock.
Looking at political participation behavior of young adults in contemporary Europe, this paper provides the reader with a map of different terminologies and theories related to political engagement. By studying the factors that influence young people's participation in politics, researchers can gain insights into how to increase civic engagement and promote a healthy democracy.
A powerful tool for reflecting on the role of secular liberal governance in a world increasingly defined by religious diversity – a review. This paper explores the challenges and opportunities of governing diverse societies in an increasingly globalized world. By examining the tensions between secularism and religious diversity, researchers can better understand how different countries navigate issues of governance and identity.
International IDEA has been contributing to the discussion about Money in Politics by analyzing trends, producing comparative data, and conducting research. By studying the role of money in politics, researchers can shed light on how financial resources influence political decision-making and shape electoral outcomes.
Jean Blondel, who has died aged 93, was one of the founding fathers of modern political science. He transformed the comparative study of democratic political systems, laying the foundation for future generations of scholars to build upon.
Based on a genealogy of the concept of Legitimacy, the goal of the paper is to develop a proposal that unites normative-theoretical and empirical approaches. By examining the concept of legitimacy in political systems, researchers can gain insights into how governments maintain authority and legitimacy in the eyes of their citizens.
The Minority Politics thematic area will leverage MSU's strengths in political science, psychology, gender and LGBTQ studies, criminal justice, Chicano/Latino studies. By focusing on the political participation and representation of minority groups, researchers can better understand the challenges and opportunities facing marginalized communities in the political sphere.
Jean Blondel, comparative political scientist, founder of the University of Essex Department of Government and the ECPR obituary. Jean Blondel's contributions to the field of comparative politics have had a lasting impact on the study of democratic governance and political systems.
