Have you ever wondered how governments make decisions, why some countries are always in conflict, or how laws shape society? If so, you might be interested in Political Science or International Relations (IR). But what’s the difference between them, and which one is the right fit for you?
Understanding the Political Science vs International Relations can help you decide on a study path and future career.
Whether you want to work in government, write policies, or help negotiate international peace agreements, knowing the key difference between Political Science and International Relations is important. In this article, we’ll break it down in an easy-to-understand way, using real-life examples.
If you’re interested in how governments work, how laws are made, and how policies affect people, Political Science is a great choice.
But if you’re more curious about global conflicts, diplomacy, and international cooperation, then comparing IR vs Political Science will help you make a better decision.
What is Political Science?
Political Science is the study of how governments function, how political decisions are made, and how laws shape society. It focuses on politics within a country and how power is used by different groups. Political Science includes topics such as:
- Comparative Politics (comparing political systems across countries)
- Political Theory (ideas about government and justice)
- Public Administration (how policies are put into action)
- Political Economy (how politics and economics affect each other)
Must Read- Political Science: Meaning, Nature, Scopes, and Importance [7points]
Example: Political Science in Action
If you are interested in how the U.S. president is elected compared to how the U.K. chooses its Prime Minister, you are studying Comparative Politics, which is a part of Political Science.
What is International Relations?
International Relations (IR) is a branch of Political Science that looks at relationships between countries. It focuses on topics like diplomacy, global trade, international conflicts, and organizations like the United Nations or World Trade Organization. It includes areas such as:
- Diplomacy and Foreign Policy (how countries interact)
- Global Security (how wars and conflicts are managed)
- International Political Economy (how trade and globalization affect politics)
- Human Rights and International Law
Must Read-
- Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Relations
- The 10 Most Powerful Determinants of Foreign Policy
Example: International Relations in Action
When countries negotiate a climate agreement like the Paris Agreement, they are practicing International Relations. Other examples include peace talks between countries or trade agreements between the U.S. and China.
Political Science vs International Relations
| Aspect | Political Science | International Relations |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Studies politics, government, and policies within a country. | Examines relationships between countries and global politics. |
| Subjects | Government systems, elections, public policies, and political theories. | Diplomacy, international trade, war and peace, and global organizations. |
| Careers | Public administrator, policy analyst, lawyer, journalist, professor. | Diplomat, foreign service officer, global affairs journalist, NGO worker. |
| Theories | Democracy, authoritarianism, federalism, political ideologies. | Realism, liberalism, constructivism (theories on global power and cooperation). |
| Decision-Making | Focuses on local and national law-making and policies. | Involves foreign policy, international agreements, and negotiations. |
| Main Influences | Public opinion, government structure, laws, and political movements. | International organizations, economic power, military alliances, and global conflicts. |
| Interdisciplinary Links | Connected to sociology, law, and economics. | Linked to history, geography, and global trade. |
| Security Studies | Studies national security, defense policies, and internal stability. | Examines global security threats, military conflicts, and peace treaties. |
| Application Level | Local, state, and national politics. | Regional, international, and global interactions. |
| Main Goal | Understanding how politics and policies shape a nation. | Understanding how countries interact and resolve global issues. |
Must Read- Public Administration vs Political Science – 10 Differences to Consider
Which One Should You Choose?
Your decision depends on what interests you the most. If you are passionate about how governments work, elections, and policies, Political Science is the better choice. If you are interested in how countries negotiate, deal with conflicts, and work together on global issues, International Relations is a better fit.
Example Decision Making:
- If you want to work in government, law, or policymaking, choose Political Science.
- If you want to work in diplomacy, global organizations, or international business, choose International Relations.
Conclusion
Political Science and International Relations are closely related but focus on different aspects of politics. While Political Science looks at government and policies within a country, International Relations focuses on relationships between nations and global issues.
Understanding these differences can help you choose the right field of study and career path. Whether you want to influence national policies or represent your country on the global stage, both fields offer exciting opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is International Relations a part of Political Science?
Yes, International Relations is a branch of Political Science that focuses on relationships between countries and global issues.
2. Which is better for a career: Political Science or International Relations?
It depends on your goals. If you want to work in local or national government, Political Science is the better fit. If you want to work in diplomacy, global politics, or international organizations, International Relations is a better choice.
3. Can I study International Relations without studying Political Science?
Yes! Many universities offer separate International Relations programs. However, studying some Political Science first can give you a good foundation.
4. What jobs can I get with a Political Science or International Relations degree?
Political Science graduates often work in government, law, public policy, and journalism. International Relations graduates work in diplomacy, foreign service, international trade, and global security.
5. Do Political Science and International Relations require different skills?
Both require strong analytical and research skills. However, International Relations may also require foreign language skills, cultural knowledge, and negotiation abilities.
References
- Heywood, A. (2019). Politics (5th ed.). Red Globe Press.
- Baylis, J., Smith, S., & Owens, P. (2020). The Globalization of World Politics: An Introduction to International Relations (8th ed.). Oxford University Press.
- Hague, R., & Harrop, M. (2021). Comparative Government and Politics: An Introduction (11th ed.). Bloomsbury Publishing.
- Walt, S. M. (1998). International Relations: One World, Many Theories. Foreign Policy, (110), 29-46.
