The study of Political Science in very useful and valuable. Its knowledge is essential and useful to both the ruler and the ruled. The significance of the study of Political Science is discussed below:
(1) Imparting Knowledge of the State:
However, the primary aim of the study of Political Science is to inculcate knowledge of the State, its origin, nature, structure and functions. Knowledge about the State is of great significance to modern man.
(2) Imparting Knowledge of government and administration:
The administrators, political leaders and diplomats, who conduct the affairs of the State, also require sound knowledge of Political Science in order to perform their functions with efficiency. An administrator who has no knowledge of Political Science is bound to be; i failure. The principles and norms established In the scholars in political science are of immense utility and value to the executives, legislators and judges. Political science is said to be a science of statesmanship and leadership.
(3) Imparting Knowledge about the world:
However, apart from these utilitarian considerations, the acquisition of know ledge of political science enriches one’s mind and widens one’s intellectual horizon. In order to know what is happening in the world around us at least an elementary knowledge of political science is necessary. In the modern age an individual cannot lead an isolated life. Each country has to maintain relations with other countries of the world.
(4) Creation of democratic values:
The study of Political Science has assumed special importance in modern times in all democratic countries. The success of democracy depends upon the political consciousness of its people. The study of political science makes people conscious of their rights and duties. It also makes them vigilant unless the citizens of a country are vigilant, alert, intelligent and patriotic; there is no possibility of successful working of democracy in that country. It is rightly said that “eternal vigilance is the price of liberty”.
(5) Creation of good citizenship:
The study of Political Science is valuable for creating good citizenship and securing unity of the nation. It makes citizens conscious of national, objectives and goals. Laski said that good citizenship implies “the contribution of one’s instructed judgment to public good”. It can be developed by the study of political science. Political Science teaches the lessons and virtues of good citizenship.
(6) Lesson of co-operation and toleration:
Political science also teaches the lesson of co-operation, adjustment and toleration. Society cannot prosper without cooperation. Man should learn how to co-operate and adjust himself with his fellow-beings. People of all walks of life should co-operate for the better development of the country. Toleration is also necessary in society.
Knowledge of Political Science Indispensable
Thus, the study of Political Science has special importance in all countries. Its study helps us to understand the mechanism and constitutional systems of modern government. The principles of government, the domestic and foreign policies of the nation. the legislature, executive and judiciary of different countries, etc. are studied in Political Science. The principles of liberty, equality and fraternity are also made clear by the study of political science. Keeping in mind its importance and utilitarian value, Aristotle regarded Political Science as “the supreme science” or “the masters of all science”. The day when the aphorism of Aristotle will be realized, is not remote indeed.