political science
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political science
The academic discipline that deals with the theory and practice of politics, political systems, and the political behavior of actors.
Im Seminar für Politikwissenschaft diskutierten wir über verschiedene Demokratiemodelle.
In the political science seminar, we discussed different models of democracy.
This word is made up of 'Politik' (politics), the linking '-s', and 'Wissenschaft' (science/academic discipline). So it literally means 'the science of politics'.
Die Politikwissenschaft analysiert Machtstrukturen in der Gesellschaft.
Political science analyzes power structures in society.
Since it is a field of study, the word is often combined with verbs such as 'studieren' (to study) or 'lehren' (to teach). A typical phrase is also 'ein Studium der Politikwissenschaft' (a degree/course of study in political science).
Sie hat sich für ein Studium der Politikwissenschaft in Berlin entschieden.
She decided to study political science in Berlin.
In university settings, 'Politikwissenschaft' is very often abbreviated as 'PoWi'. This abbreviation is widespread in course catalogs and among students.
Ich habe morgen eine Prüfung in PoWi.
I have an exam in PoWi tomorrow.
politics / policy
Politik refers to the subject itself and to practical efforts to shape public life. Politikwissenschaft is the academic discipline that studies politics. When you clearly mean the field of study or research, Politikwissenschaft is therefore the appropriate term.
Lea studiert Politikwissenschaft und untersucht politische Systeme.
Lea studies political science and researches political systems.
Lea interessiert sich im Studium besonders für Politik und politische Systeme.
As part of her studies, Lea is particularly interested in politics and political systems.
