The great Greek philosopher, Aristotle referred to it as "The Master Science." He felt that it is natural that human beings live in politically organized societies, and that it was only through our political institutions that we are able to create those public policies which enable every person to achieve their "highest good." Political Science primarily is concerned with the study of politics (i.e. the creation of public policy).

The study of political science is concerned with the study of authority and power, policy-making (i.e. politics) and administration, human political institutions and political behavior, national government and local government, state politics and world politics. Ultimately the discipline is concerned with how society creates the rules and institutions which people live in ordered, stable, and relatively secure societies, as well as how states (i.e. nations) work to achieve peace and harmonious working relationships.