The term "political science" encompasses the systematic study of politics, government structures, political behavior, and the analysis of political theories and ideologies. This discipline involves examining the functions and operations of various political systems, including democracies, authoritarian regimes, and international relations. Political science employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore how power dynamics influence policy-making and governance. Key subfields include comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy, all aimed at understanding how political decisions shape societal outcomes.