Relevance of Polisci Flashcards
The Relevance of Science in Political Science
If the science is good (precise, high quality), it is relevant.
The enlightenment function.
The critical challenge:
Critics highlight the power dynamics in producing knowledge for different types of governments.
Acknowledges that more knowledge in certain areas (e.g., nuclear weapons) can pose problems.
Communication Challenges in Political Science
Political scientists need better communication.
Specialized journals are common, but face barriers:
Jargon.
Gatekeeping.
Openings include popular writing, media engagement, and social media.
Problem-Oriented Focus in Political Science
Political science should solve societal problems.
Focus on policymakers and/or citizens.
Advocates for a problem-oriented approach, uniting insights from normative and empirical theorists.
Political Science and Policy Design
Political scientists should design policies.
Integration of political science and design thinking.
Knowledge of substance aids in useful advice and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Emphasis on effective and politically feasible program design.
Co-Production of Political Science Research
Political science research should be co-produced.
Collaboration with civil society.
Challenges include technicality leading to jargon.
Introduction of citizen social science.
Critique of overreliance on sophisticated quantitative methods.
Ivory Tower Critique
Ivory tower critique: Academics in universities are seen as removed from society.
Positives: Allows for specialization and holds intrinsic value.
Contribution to Democratic Culture
Political science contributes to democratic culture.
Involvement in citizenship education.
Political scientists take normative values seriously.
Emphasis on protecting the foundations of liberal democracy.
6 critiques of relevance
Communication Challenges
Problem-Oriented Focus
Policy Design and Collaboration
Co-Production of Research
Good Science
Contributions to Democratic Culture
