Politics : the master science

Aristotle defined politics as 'the master science', and regarded it as activity based on knowledge and understanding. Professor Wiseman describes this activity and examines the development of the study of politics. There is particular emphasis on American political science since it has provided so many new approaches and fields of interest in the subject.

The book considers the increasing ten dency of political scientists to make their work 'scientific'. Professor Wiseman dis cusses first what is meant by 'science' and 'scientific method' and then examines in detail in what sense political studies can be made scientific. He is concerned with the relationship between politics as study and politics as practical art, and considers especially whether political scientists should be drawn into discussion of current prob lems, or become involved in practice, either directly or by way of advice.

The present and future state of 'political science is assessed in a final chapter which examines both the academic discipline and the practical art. Professor Wiseman points out in conclusion how important it is that democracy, if it is to make the most of its scientific and technical resources, should seek to understand what scientists are doing and the implications of the advice they give.