Political science is considered a social science because it is concerned with human behavior--namely, the way in which humans organize themselves and impose order on society. The discipline is concerned with both the theory and practice of politics. It seeks to describe and analyze political behavior. Through the application of the scientific method, political scientists systematically study a variety of facets of human political organization and behavior.
Political scientists concerned with political behavior may research a number of topics that many people readily associate with the word "politics," including electoral patterns, voting behaviors or campaign strategies. Others may study politics at a more abstract or theoretical level, examining different forms of political theory or political philosophy. Comparative political sciences look at political systems across time or cultures. Research into international relations or policy studies and analysis is also key to political science. Increasingly, political scientists also examine the intersection of politics or political behavior with other domains of human life, including sexuality, gender, race and ethnicity, health, economics or religion.
Political science research employs both scientific and humanistic research methods. Common methods include document analysis, interviews, surveys, the use of primary and secondary sources, and direct observation. Like all scientific research, political science research seeks to answer a specific research question or to verify (or falsify) a hypothesis.
The results of political science research are applied in a number of ways. They may be used to inform and shape policy or legislation, to explain patterns of political behavior or to generate new theories of political organization and behavior.
In an increasingly interconnected world, political science research helps inform policy and foreign relations. Systematically investigating the ways in which people organize themselves and the ways in which these organizational systems interact with other domains of human life helps in the creation of effective programs, informs international relations and assists in negotiations.