Political Science 160 Introduction to World Politics
Section 5, Paper 1
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The Science in Social Science
Critique of the Science in Social Science In order to understand the study of politics, one must first gain an understanding of the scientific aspect. Science, as defined by Professor Jacobson in lecture, is a branch of knowledge with a body of facts systematically arranged and showing the operation of general laws. It is this aspect that Gary King chooses to emphasize in his article The Science in Social Science. The subject of political science contains two distinct ideologies. The first, the more obvious of the two, is the social component. This refers to the political interaction between people on a local, national, and international level. The less apparent aspect, but equally important is the science involved. In order to entirely comprehend political life, one must thoroughly study the subject. This can only be effectively achieved through conducting research. The necessary research techniques are best described by King in his article. Upon reading the article it becomes evident that King has provided a clear description of scientific research as well as providing an outline for a thorough research project. The methods displayed are clear and necessary, due to the fact that a science must be built on an foundation of elementary building blocks. This enables future researchers and students in the field to be able to test past generalizations and improve upon them. Prior to beginning any research projects, those involved should balance their desire to create innovative contributions to the existing realm of knowledge with an understanding for the incomplete nature of their study. The scientific method, although effective in its quest to define certain generalizations, cannot be completely relied on to formulate laws in the field of political science. In his article, King expands on the notion describing the four major components of research design. He believes that each of these components; research question, theory, data, and the use of data, can be further improved. In choosing a research question, for instance, King describes several options that must be considered. The six hints he offers suggest, correctly, that in order to sucessfully pinpoint a topic for research, one must view existing studies skeptically. The studies must be under constant scrutiny and investigation,for they cannot simply be assumed true unless they remain consistently valid against all case studies. In choosing a theory, King's three steps are beneficial to researchers. They ensure results with limited flaws by accounting inclusively for all possible inaccuracies. Finally, there is the collection and use of data. King's explanation outlines the importance of data as either supportive or formulative in relation to a theory. The two roles, although obvious, must still receive proper attention. It is data that remains crucial to the answering and proving of the above mentioned questions and theories. Gathering data is the essence of any scientific study, including those of political science. Ironically, the best example of King's methodology in terms of the scientific aspect of political science, is the article itself. In creating his system of conducting research he has demonstrated all the aspects that he describes. It was necessary for him to first question the method of research used in politcal science, then to create a theory, and finally to gather data and apply it properly. In reading the article, one is left rather convinced by King's argument. His ideas on research and their importance to politcal science are reflected in the success of his article.
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