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Every day of our lives we come in contact, directly or indirectly, with the government.

State policies affect the price and amount of food, clothing and fuel we buy. They also regulate our recreational activities and tell us what we can and cannot do. A fair-sized proportion of all the money we earn must be paid to the government in taxes. In many countries government provides medical care for us when we are sick and gives us aid when we are out of work. These are only a few examples of how the government affects our lives.

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Every day of our lives we come in contact, directly or indirectly, with the government.

State policies affect the price and amount of food, clothing and fuel we buy. They also regulate our recreational activities and tell us what we can and cannot do. A fair-sized proportion of all the money we earn must be paid to the government in taxes. In many countries government provides medical care for us when we are sick and gives us aid when we are out of work. These are only a few examples of how the government affects our lives.

Aristotle called political science the “master science” because it influences all aspects of human life: what we can do, what we can say, where we can live, even what we can eat.

Political science can help us understand how the government operates and how it impacts us. The quest to understand the governments is urgent and important, because our welfare is tied up with what happens to it. By understanding it we can make better decisions for our own and for our organizations.

At the same time political science helps us not only better understand the world around us, but also sheds light on political processes happening every day, helping you become a more informed citizen.

In this political science course we will explore political concepts and structures of government.

While political science is concerned with the general study of the political system, it deals also, practically and intensively, with a selected number of political institutions. Some of these political institutions are the legislative, the executive and the judiciary branches of the goverment.

In addition to that we will learn how states operate, how they differ and how they have developed through time.

We will also explore how we might influence the government.

Studying political science is imperative, because it allows you to gain a better insight on one the most powerful forces operating on people, the government.

So enroll now and let’s get started.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn about the political world.
  • Gain an inside on the most powerful force operating around people, the government.
  • Understand the branches of government and their role.
  • Deep dives into the various types of government.
  • Learn more about government, its affect on us and how we might influence it.
  • Learn about the state and its characteristics.
  • Learn about the origins of our modern states.
  • Examine the functions that a government performs.
  • Deep dives into the vital parts of the government such as the legislature, the executive and the judiciary.
  • Understand political processes.
  • Explore the unions that states form and federations.
  • Explore the political system.
  • Learn about political institutions.
  • Broaden your knowledge on politics.
  • Learn how the branches of the government interfere with one another.
  • Learn about a range of political topics.
  • Learn in depth about the electorate and elections.
  • Deepen your knowledge of democracy.
  • Understand political science.
  • And much more!
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Syllabus

Does the state have authority?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the sovereignty of the state.

Which are the various types of unions between states?
Read more

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the different types of unions between states.

What are the different types of government?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the different types of government.

The structure of the government
The nature of the state
What is a state and what are its essential characteristics?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the characteristics of the state.

What are the origins of the state?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the origins of the state.

What are the duties of the government & who performs them?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the duties of the government and who performs them.

What is the role & structure of the legislature?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the role and structure of the legislature.

What are the functions of the executive?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the functions of the executive.

How is the head of the government appointed?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the head of the government.

Which are the organs of the executive?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the organs of the executive.

What are the functions of the judiciary?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the judiciary functions.

What is the relation of the judiciary to the other branches of the government?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the relationship of the judiciary to the other branches of the government.

Who is part of the electorate?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the electorate.

How does the electorate participate in government?

Test your knowledge on what you learned about the participation of the electorate in government.

Conclusion

Test your knowledge of key concepts in political science with this practice test. This test covers all the lessons of the course. Each question is designed to challenge your understanding of what you learned. Good luck!

Political science: Lessons learned and key takeaways

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Offers a deep understanding of how our daily lives are affected by government at various levels
Provides comprehensive insights into the structure and functions of different branches of government
Examines how political systems have evolved over time, providing a historical perspective
Guides learners in understanding the impact of political processes on their daily lives
Suitable for individuals seeking a comprehensive overview of political science
Can serve as a foundation for further studies or enhance understanding of current events

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Political Science: Understanding Our Government and Politics with these activities:
Review basic principles of political theory
Refresh your knowledge of the foundational concepts that underpin political theories and arguments.
Browse courses on Political Science
Show steps
  • Read introductory texts or articles
  • Attend review sessions or workshops
  • Discuss key concepts with peers
Read classic works in political science
Get acquainted with the seminal texts that shaped modern political thought and understanding.
Show steps
  • Identify a classic work relevant to your interests
  • Read and annotate the text
  • Engage in discussions or write a summary of your insights
Explore online resources on political systems
Supplement your coursework with additional materials to gain a deeper understanding of political concepts and structures.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online resources
  • Explore interactive simulations and tutorials
  • Watch documentaries and videos on political science
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Test your knowledge of political ideologies
Reinforce your understanding of the different ideologies and perspectives that shape political landscapes.
Browse courses on Political Science
Show steps
  • Take online quizzes or use flashcards
  • Engage in discussions and debates
Interview a public servant
Experience the inner workings of government firsthand and gain insights into the different roles and functions of public servants.
Browse courses on Political Institutions
Show steps
  • Identify a potential interviewee
  • Prepare questions
  • Schedule and conduct the interview
  • Analyze and reflect on the interview
Participate in a political campaign or organization
Gain hands-on experience in the political arena and contribute to the implementation of political strategies.
Show steps
  • Identify a campaign or organization that aligns with your interests
  • Join a team and volunteer your time
  • Participate in campaign activities and events
  • Reflect on your experience and its impact
Design a political campaign strategy
Apply your knowledge of political systems and processes to create a realistic campaign strategy that can influence political outcomes.
Show steps
  • Identify a political campaign or issue
  • Research candidates, issues, and target audience
  • Develop a campaign message and platform
  • Design a campaign budget and strategy
  • Present your campaign strategy
Create a political science portfolio
Organize and present your learning materials in a comprehensive portfolio that demonstrates your understanding of political concepts.
Browse courses on Political Science
Show steps
  • Gather assignments, research papers, and projects
  • Create a cohesive narrative and structure
  • Reflect on your learning journey and progress
  • Share your portfolio with peers or mentors

Career center

Learners who complete Political Science: Understanding Our Government and Politics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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