Classic Theories of Political Science
The Early Philosophers
Describing the ideal political system
- Plato
- Republic (4th C. BC) - Normative examination of governing
- Citizens incapable of governing themselves, a philospher/king should rule to create a just society.
- Aristotle
- Politics (4th C. BC) - Both normative (what should be) and descriptive (what is)
- Based on observations of Greek city-states to see "what works and what doesn't"
- Democracy is best, and best ruled by citizens of the middle class.
- Machiavelli
- The Prince (1513) - obtaining and using political power
- A realist: explanations not based on religious doctrines or what we wish society to be