politics research topics

Research Topics & Ideas: Politics

100+ Politics-Related Research Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

Finding and choosing a strong research topic is the critical first step when it comes to crafting a high-quality dissertation or thesis. If you’ve landed on this post, chances are you’re looking for a politics-related research topic , but aren’t sure where to start. Here, we’ll explore a variety of politically-related research ideas across a range of disciplines, including political theory and philosophy, comparative politics, international relations, public administration and policy.

NB – This is just the start…

The topic ideation and evaluation process has multiple steps . In this post, we’ll kickstart the process by sharing some research topic ideas. This is the starting point, but to develop a well-defined research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , along with a well-justified plan of action to fill that gap.

If you’re new to the oftentimes perplexing world of research, or if this is your first time undertaking a formal academic research project, be sure to check out our free dissertation mini-course. Also, be sure to sign up for our free webinar that explores how to find a high-quality research topic from scratch.

Overview: Politics-Related Topics

• Political theory and philosophy
• Comparative politics
• International relations
• Public administration
• Public policy
• Examples of politics-related dissertations

Topics & Ideas: Political Theory

• An analysis of the impact of feminism on political theory and the concept of citizenship in Saudi Arabia in the context of Vision 2030
• A comparative study of the political philosophies of Marxism and liberalism and their influence on modern politics
• An examination of how the Covid-19 pandemic affected the relationship between individual freedom and collective responsibility in political philosophy
• A study of the impact of race and ethnicity on French political philosophy and the concept of justice
• An exploration of the role of religion in political theory and its impact on secular democracy in the Middle East
• A Review of Social contract theory, comparative analysis of the political philosophies of Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau
• A study of the concept of the common good in political philosophy and its relevance to the ongoing refugee crisis in Europe
• An examination of the relationship between political power and the rule of law in developing African countries
• A study of the impact of postmodernism on political theory and the concept of truth, a case study of the US
• An exploration of the role of virtue in political philosophy and its impact on the assessment of moral character in political leaders

Topics & Ideas: Comparative Politics

• A comparative study of different models of federalism and their impact on democratic governance: A case Study of South American federalist states
• The impact of ethnic and religious diversity on political stability and democracy in developing countries, a review of literature from Africa
• An analysis of the role of civil society in promoting democratic change in autocratic regimes: A case study in Sweden
• A comparative examination of the impact of globalization on political institutions and processes in South America and Africa.
• A study of the factors that contribute to successful democratization in authoritarian regimes, a review of the role of Elite-driven democratization
• A comparison of the political and economic systems of China and India and their impact on social development
• The impact of corruption on political institutions and democracy in South East Asia, a critical review
• A comparative examination of the impact of majoritarian representation (winner-take-all) vs proportional representation on political representation and governance
• An exploration of Multi-party systems in democratic countries and their impact on minority representation and policy-making.
• A study of the factors that contribute to successful decentralization and regional autonomy, a case study of Spain

Topics & Ideas: International Relations

• A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of diplomacy and military force in resolving international conflicts in Central Africa.
• The impact of globalization on the sovereignty of nation-states and the changing nature of international politics, a review of the role of Multinational Corporations
• An examination of the role of international aid organizations in promoting peace, security, and development in the Middle East.
• A study of the impact of economic interdependence on the likelihood of conflict in international relations: A critical review of weaponized interdependence
• A comparative analysis of the foreign policies of the EU and the US and their impact on international stability in Africa
• An exploration of the relationship between international human rights and national sovereignty during the Covid 19 pandemic
• A study of the role of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO)s in international politics and their impact on state behaviour
• A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of international regimes in addressing global challenges such as climate change, arms control, and terrorism in Brazil
• An examination of the impact of the rise of BRICS on the international system and global governance
• A study of the role of ideology in shaping the foreign policies of states and the dynamics of international relations in the US

Tops & Ideas: Public Administration

• An analysis of the impact of digital technology on public administration and the delivery of public services in Estonia
• A review of models of public-private partnerships and their impact on the delivery of public services in Ghana
• An examination of the role of civil society organizations in monitoring and accountability of public administration in Papua New Guinea
• A study of the impact of environmentalism as a political ideology on public administration and policy implementation in Germany
• An exploration of the relationship between public administration and citizen engagement in the policy-making process, an exploration of gender identity concerns in schools
• A comparative analysis of the efficiency and effectiveness of public administration, decentralisation and pay and employment reform in developing countries
• A study of the role of collaborative leadership in public administration and its impact on organizational performance
• A systematic review of the challenges and opportunities related to diversity and inclusion in police services
• A study of the impact of corrupt public administration on economic development and regional growth in Eastern Europe
• An exploration of the relationship between public administration and civil rights and liberties, including issues related to privacy and surveillance, a case study in South Korea

Topics & Ideas: Public Policy

• An analysis of the impacts of public policy on income inequality and poverty reduction in South Sudan
• A comparative study of the effectiveness of legal and regulatory, economic and financial, and social and cultural instruments for addressing climate change in South Korea
• An examination of the role of interest groups in shaping public policy and the policy-making process regarding land-use claims
• A study of the impact of globalization on the development of public policies and programs for mitigating climate change in Singapore
• An exploration of the relationship between public policy and social justice in tertiary education in the UAE
• A comparative analysis of the impact of health policies for the management of diabetes on access to healthcare and health outcomes in developing countries
• Exploring the role of evidence-based policymaking in the design and implementation of public policies for the management of invasive invertebrates in Australia
• An examination of the challenges and opportunities of implementing educational dietary public policies in developing multicultural countries
• A study of the impact of public policies on urbanization and urban development in rural Indonesia
• An exploration of the role of media and public opinion in shaping public policy and the policy-making process in the transport industry of Malaysia

Examples: Politics Dissertations & Theses

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a politics-related research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual dissertations and theses to see how this all comes together.

Below, we’ve included a selection of research projects from various politics-related degree programs to help refine your thinking. These are actual dissertations and theses, written as part of Master’s and PhD-level programs, so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• We, the Righteous Few: Immoral Actions of Fellow Partisans are Judged as Less Possible (Varnam, 2020)
• Civilizing the State: Civil Society and the Politics of Primary Public Health Care Provision in Urban Brazil (Gibson, 2012)
• Political regimes and minority language policies: evidence from Taiwan and southeast Asia (Wu, 2021)
• The Feminist Third Wave: Social Reproduction, Feminism as Class Struggle, and Contemporary Women’s Movements (Angulo, 2019)
• The Politics of Immigration under Authoritarianism (Joo, 2019)
• The politics of digital platforms: Sour Dictionary, activist subjectivities, and contemporary cultures of resistance (Okten, 2019)
• Vote choice and support for diverse candidates on the Boston City Council At-Large (Dolcimascolo, 2022)
• The city agenda: local governance and national influence in the policy agenda, 1900-2020 (Shannon, 2022)
• Turf wars: who supported measures to criminalize homelessness in Austin, Texas? (Bompiedi, 2021)
• Do BITs Cause Opposition Between Investor Rights and Environmental Protection? (Xiong, 2022)
• Revealed corruption and electoral accountability in Brazil: How politicians anticipate voting behavior (Diaz, 2021)
• Intersectional Solidarity: The Political Consequences of a Consciousness of Race, Gender and Sexuality (Crowder, 2020)
• The Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the Coalitional Representation of Latinxs in the U.S. House of Representatives (Munoz, 2019)

Looking at these titles, you can probably pick up that the research topics here are quite specific and narrowly-focused , compared to the generic ones presented earlier. In other words, to create a top-notch research topic, you must be precise and target a specific context with specific variables of interest . In other words, you need to identify a clear, well-justified research gap.

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100 Best Political Science Research Topics

June 3, 2024

Political science is an incredibly broad and variated discipline, containing numerous subfields that attract immense amounts of research. Researchers in the field can utilize diverse empirical or theoretical methodologies, sometimes in combination. There are specialized fields based on geographic areas, time periods, political forms and institutions, and bodies of thought. Researchers might aim to impact policy, inspire advocacy, or produce knowledge about the nature of political ideas, systems, and processes. There are even sub-disciplines that focus separately on either relations or comparisons between nation-states (international relations and comparative politics, respectively). Given this expansiveness, it can be challenging to quickly pick out compelling political science research topics.

This article provides a broad sample of political science topics. Most of the topics are already the subject of intensive research, which is ultimately something to look for when identifying a topic. Understanding the themes and subfields that already structure study in the field can ultimately help toward locating a unique research interest. From there, it’s a matter of refining interests into specific topics and, eventually, questions that drive research.

Picking Political Science Research Topics

Finding political science topics usually involves doing two things, sometimes simultaneously. The first requires understanding what prominent topics already exist in the field(s). After all, this discipline has been around for many decades, with incredible amounts of published research each year. It’s best to not try to wholly reinvent the wheel in this case, or risk selecting a topic for which there is no available research. The second entails reflecting on what feels important to research. A topic could be significant because it is remarkably timely or because there is some pragmatic outcome in mind. The researcher might even have a personal connection with the topic on top of these other kinds of factors. Pursuing research that feels important is an evergreen recommendation – otherwise, research can be produced without any clear purpose or benefit in mind.

So, when picking political science research topics, consider these processes and resources:

1) Start with what interests you. Take inventory of your personal and intellectual experiences and how they might intersect with what you know about political research. How would you map your experiences geographically or historically? What themes in the political sphere grab your attention? In what ways have you and others around you interacted with formal politics? Understanding what you are motivated to learn about makes the process of selecting among political science topics more organic.

Picking Political Science Research Topics (Cont.)

2) Consider what feels urgent. Political science has a good deal of overlap with the discipline of history. But perhaps even more than historians, political scientists are committed to understanding and improving politics in the present. A great deal of tremendous scholarship is sparked from this presentist impulse. What news items are persistently interesting or seem to revolve around intractably complex problems? A topic connected to widely recognized issues in the present will almost immediately justify the resulting research.

3) Survey field categories and literature. Usually, topics that are timely will already be drawing attention from other researchers. It’s also possible to spark curiosity through understanding how others have framed topics and questions. However, the most important reason for this step is to ensure that a research topic will have enough published writing around it to warrant attention. There are many ways to complete a survey within or across political science fields. To start, fields like comparative politics have field-specific journals and anthologies with useful descriptions and citations. There is the Journal of Comparative Politics , a journal called Comparative Political Studies , and a big anthology called Comparative Politics: A Practical Guide . Another extremely helpful resource is the research database known as Oxford Bibliographies . There, political science scholars compile bibliographic entries that define subfields and provide key citations.

Again, these are not strictly sequential steps. Often, it’s necessary to engage existing topics and research questions and use them to inspire reflection on what feels significant. Or it’s likely that specific interests will help delimit subfields, making it easier to comb through topics.

It’s important to narrow topics so that a researcher could reasonably become an expert on. In Oxford Bibliographies, many times they break very broad topics into multiple subtopics, each with its own body of literature. But it can also be useful to think about the research question that might stem from the broad topic. What specifically is it that needs to be known about this topic? What causes and effects are involved in phenomena we can see and describe but have not yet analyzed? Or what can be critiqued, evaluated, improved or replaced? Finding how a broad topic can lead to descriptive, analytical, or evaluative research questions is the most effective way to identify compelling and specific topics.

The List – Political Science Research Topics (1-30)

African politics.

1) African Ethnic, Linguistic, and Religious Minority Political Representation

2) Authoritarianism in the Politics of Sub-Saharan Africa

3) Comparative Political Structures of African Urban Governments

4) Democratization Policies and Political Movements in Africa

5) Ethnic and Religious Plurality in the Politics of Nigeria

6) National and Transnational LGBTQ Political Movements in Africa

7) Political Organization Around Climate Crises in Africa

8) Public Opinion on International NGOs in Africa

9) South Africa’s Governmental Policies for COVID Vaccination

10) Women in African Politics

Asian Politics

11) Competing Claims to Sovereignty in the South China Sea

12) Economic and Cultural Effects of China’s One-Child Policy

13) Labor Politics in China

14) Media Politics and Expression in Asian Countries

15) Nationalism and Religious Minorities in India

16) Philippine Politics and the Illicit Drug Economy

17) Social Movements in East Asia

18) South Korean Policies Addressing Demographic Decline

19) Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong

20) Youth Protest Movements in Taiwan

Comparative Politics

21) Authoritarian Populism in Brazil, Hungary, and India

22) Countries that Host Foreign-Owned Nuclear Weapons

23) Diasporas and National Politics in South and East Asian Countries

24) Differences in Environmental Politics Between the Global North and Global South

25) Elections in Sierra Leone and Their Differences from Other Countries

26) Governmental Responses to Gang Violence in Different Latin American Countries

27) Income Inequality in Advanced Democracies

28) Indigenous Rights and Politics in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand

29) Laws Surrounding Abortion in the U.S. and the U.K.

30) State Legitimacy and Authority in Botswana and Somalia

Political Science Topics (31-60)

European politics.

31) Authoritarianism and Media Politics in Turkey

32) Austerity, White Identity Politics, and Brexit

33) Ethnic and Religious Minority Representation in the European Union

34) European Public Opinion on Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

35) Far-Right Political Mobilization in Europe

36) France’s Political Opposition to Multicultural Pluralism

37) Immigration, Islamophobia, and European Union Political Campaigns

38) Political Challenges and Opportunities for European Integration

39) Regime Transitions in Post-Communist Eastern Europe

40) Welfare State Development in Western Europe

International Relations

41) Border Security Politics, Immigration, and International Relations

42) Efficacy of International Criminal Justice Bodies

43) Energy Politics of International Relations

44) Global Economy of Illicit Drugs

45) Global Politics of Intellectual Property

46) International Conflict Management

47) International NGOs and Their Effects on National Politics

48) Political Responses to Transboundary Pollution

49) Preferential Trade Agreements and Tariff Wars

50) Regulation of International Private Corporations

Latin American Politics

51) Authoritarianism and Democratization in Brazil’s Political History

52) Christian Transnational Political Mobilization in Latin America

53) Electoral Volatility and Suppression in Venezuela

54) Government Responses to Organized Crime in Mexico and Central America

55) Guerilla Insurgencies in Latin America

56) Neoliberalism and Democracy in Latin America

57) Military Government in Latin America, 1959-1990

58) Populism’s Role in Shaping Latin American Politics

59) Poverty, Inequality, and Development in Latin America

60) Regional Economic, Political, and Cultural Integration in Latin America

Political Science Research Topics (61-90)

Methodology.

61) Accuracy and Reliability of Models Predicting Election Outcomes

62) Applying Game Theory to Understand Political Strategies

63) Development of Survey Methods and Research

64) Ethical Problems Surrounding the Use of Experiments in Political Research

65) Experimental Methods for Promoting Voter Turnout

66) Impact of Survey Design and Sampling Techniques on Validity in Public Opinion Polls

67) Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Political Research

68) Machine Learning Techniques and Political Science

69) Researching Politics Through Big Data

70) Using Ethnography to Study Political Behavior and Institutions

Middle Eastern Politics

71) Comparative Politics of the Middle East and North Africa

72) Democracy, Statehood, and the Israel-Palestine Peace Process

73) Immigrant Labor Politics in Oil-Rich Middle East Countries

74) Mobilization and Oppression Through Media Control in the Arab Spring

75) Oil Wealth, Political Stability, and Economic Development in the Middle East

76) Political Islam, National, and International Politics in the Middle East

77) Postcolonialism and the Political Development of Iran

78) S. Foreign Policy and Its Effects on Stability and Governance in the Middle East

79) Women’s Political Participation in the Middle East and North Africa

80) Water Politics and Their Impact on Middle Easter International Relations and Security

Political Theory

81) Critical Political Theory and the Frankfurt School

82) Development of Political Thought in Ancient China

83) Effects of New Media (i.e., TVs, CDs, social messaging platforms) in Politics

84) Feminist Interventions in Political Thought

85) Hegelian and Counter-Hegelian Political Thought

86) Intersectionality in Political Theory

87) Nationalist and Cosmopolitan Political Thought

88) Religion in Classical and Contemporary Political Thought

89) Political Representation and Policy Responsiveness to Public Opinion

90) Postcolonial and Decolonial Political Theory

Political Science Topics (91-100)

U.s. politics.

91) Age and Generational Differences in U.S. Politics

92) Asian American Politics and Political Movements

93) Campaign Advertising in U.S. Elections

94) Celebrity Influence on Political Campaigns in the U.S.

95) Interest Groups and Modern U.S. Conservativism

96) Litigation Strategies in Political Contests Over Abortion

97) Politics of Electoral Redistricting in the U.S.

98) Politics of U.S. Healthcare System and Reform

99) S. Politics and Policies of Mass Incarceration

100) Voter Opinion on Women Political Candidates

Final Thoughts on Political Science Research Topics

Political science topics are rarely one-size-fits-all. Like many humanistic and other modes of research, topics typically suit the specific interests and motivations of the researcher. Do you want to improve a method or practical process? Are you interested in the politics of a specific region, or motivated to learn about something especially urgent? Where is the conversation within or across fields, and where might you have the most to contribute? Combining careful self-assessment and knowledge of research fields is the best way to effectively carve out your own chunk of the gigantic discipline that is political science.

Political Science Research Topics – Additional Resources

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100 Original Political Science Research Topics

Updated 13 Jun 2024

Political Science research papers can easily become overly complex and weak if there are too many ideas scattered across assignment. In order to remedy such situation, choose suitable political science research topics that not only meet initial requirements, but suit author’s personal interest and skills. It should be noted that such assignments are written by Law students, educators, sociologists, or philosophers.

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5 Do’s & 5 Don’ts of Political Papers

Things that are important for any political science research paper:

• Always make sure that opposite opinion or counter argument paragraph is included before conclusion part.
• Backup provided facts with reliable academic sources.  
• Turn to statistics & data to support provided ideas.
• Research related literature & similar projects.  
• Adhere to one idea - one paragraph rule.

Things that you should avoid while completing a research paper for political science class:

• Addressing sensitive subjects, do not use harsh tone.
• Unless working with personal reflection, avoid portrayal of only one side of an issue.
• Stay neutral when talking of political parties. In such way, it allows seeing benefits & flaws of each actor on his or her own.
• Do not use extensive quoting unless absolutely necessary.
• Avoid colloquial language along with slang term elements.

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100 Political Science Research Topics

Political science research topics on comparative politics.

This study field focuses on empirical approach, including comparative methods. Practical examples may include domestic politics, institutions analysis, and diverse conflicts related to domestic or international issues. When choosing such topic, it’s necessary to focus not on study object per se, but on method that is implemented for particular political science issue analysis. Examples can be two parties politics comparison, check some research topics:

• Comparative Analysis of Electoral Systems in Democracies Worldwide
• The Impact of Political Culture on Policy Making: A Cross-National Study
• Federalism vs. Unitarism: A Comparative Study of Government Structures
• Political Party Systems: A Comparative Analysis of European Countries
• The Role of Civil Society in Democratic Consolidation: A Comparative Perspective
• Authoritarian Regimes in the 21st Century: A Comparative Study
• Comparative Study of Political Corruption in Emerging Economies
• Welfare State Models in Scandinavia and Southern Europe: A Comparative Analysis
• The Influence of Religion on Politics: A Comparative Study of Middle Eastern and Western Countries
• Political Responses to Immigration: A Comparative Study of the U.S. and Europe
• Environmental Policies: A Comparative Analysis of Developed and Developing Countries
• The Impact of Globalization on National Sovereignty: A Comparative Study
• Women in Politics: A Comparative Analysis of Gender Quotas in Different Countries
• The Effectiveness of Counter-Terrorism Policies: A Comparative Study
• Social Media and Political Mobilization: A Comparative Analysis of Different Political Regimes

International Relations Political Science Research Topics

Quoting Hans Morgenthau, one can assume that international politics deal with power balance between actors in the international arena. All these struggle involved, filled with conflicts, negotiations, along with controversies take minds of scientists all over the world as they try their best to achieve peaceful resolution of occurring issues. From human rights, global poverty to global ethics, globalization, environmental issues, and security. Here are research topic examples:

• The Role of International Organizations in Mediating Global Conflicts
• China's Rising Influence in International Politics: Opportunities and Challenges
• The Impact of Globalization on Sovereignty of Nation-States
• Climate Change Diplomacy: International Efforts and Agreements
• Cybersecurity and International Relations: Emerging Threats and Policies
• The Effectiveness of Economic Sanctions as a Foreign Policy Tool
• The Role of Soft Power in Shaping International Public Opinion
• Post-Brexit European Union: Challenges and Prospects for International Relations
• The Influence of Non-State Actors in Shaping Global Policies
• Nuclear Proliferation and International Security: Case Studies of Iran and North Korea
• The United Nations' Role in Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution
• Human Rights and International Law: Case Studies of Violations and Responses
• The Impact of International Trade Agreements on National Economies
• Refugee Crises and International Response: Policy and Humanitarian Perspectives
• The Dynamics of US-China Relations in the Context of Global Power Shifts

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Political science philosophy research topics.

This science branch deals with fundamental state legislation aspects, government, liberty, democracy, justice, and legal code mechanics as issued by authority. Most political science essay topics dealing with this subject speak about how society should be set up, what ethics should be applied. There are many political topics to write about. Here are practical topic examples:

• The Evolution of Social Contract Theory from Hobbes to Rawls
• Analyzing Machiavelli's Influence on Modern Political Thought
• The Concept of Justice in Plato’s and Aristotle’s Philosophies
• John Locke's Political Philosophy and Its Impact on Liberal Democracies
• The Role of Power and Ethics in Foucault's Political Analysis
• Hannah Arendt’s Views on Totalitarianism and Modern Political Crises
• Karl Marx's Theory of Class Struggle and Its Relevance Today
• The Intersection of Feminist Theory and Political Philosophy
• Rousseau’s Concept of General Will and Its Implications for Modern Democracy
• The Philosophy of Human Rights: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives
• Utilitarianism in Political Decision-Making: Benefits and Limitations
• Libertarianism vs. Communitarianism: A Philosophical Debate
• The Impact of Postmodernism on Contemporary Political Theory
• Thomas Hobbes and the Notion of State of Nature in Political Philosophy
• The Concept of Liberty in the Philosophies of Isaiah Berlin and John Stuart Mill

Political Science Research Topics on Public Administration

This science studies daily functions performed by governmental structures, public administrators work, and various agencies implementation that administer functioning of laws, regulations, as well as introduced policies. Also, many subjects deal with Sociology. Our experts offer such research topics:

• The Role of Public Administration in Crisis Management and Response
• E-Government and Digital Transformation in Public Administration
• Public Policy Analysis: Case Studies of Successful Policy Implementations
• The Impact of Public Administration on Urban Development and Planning
• Comparative Study of Bureaucratic Systems in Different Countries
• Public Sector Reforms: Best Practices and Lessons Learned
• The Role of Ethics and Accountability in Public Administration
• Public-Private Partnerships: Benefits, Challenges, and Opportunities
• The Influence of Political Leadership on Public Administration Efficiency
• Innovations in Public Service Delivery: Case Studies from Around the World
• The Impact of Globalization on National Public Administration Systems
• Decentralization and Local Governance: Challenges and Opportunities
• The Role of Public Administration in Environmental Policy and Sustainability
• Human Resource Management Practices in the Public Sector
• The Effectiveness of Public Administration in Healthcare Policy Implementation

Political Science Research Topics on Public Law

It is part of law that studies relationships between state and public members. In terms of challenges, it covers broad range of topics from administrative law, constitution, taxes, and criminal legislation among others. It should not be confused with Private Law that deals with families, small groups, private businesses where economics and more personal issues are considered. Public Law deals with administrative authority in relation to citizens. As an example, when certain decision is questioned, individual society member can ask for plea or review analysis by state authority. Even if it sounds too complex, here are interesting political science research questions samples to inspire you for a great research topic:

• The Evolution of Constitutional Law in Emerging Democracies
• Judicial Review and Its Impact on Democratic Governance
• Comparative Analysis of Civil Liberties in Different Legal Systems
• The Role of International Law in Resolving Territorial Disputes
• Human Rights Legislation: Global Trends and National Impacts
• The Effectiveness of Anti-Corruption Laws in Different Political Systems
• Public Law and Its Role in Regulating Cybersecurity and Privacy
• Environmental Law and Policy: International Agreements and National Implementation
• The Influence of Lobbying on Public Policy and Lawmaking
• Legal Frameworks for Immigration and Refugee Policies in Various Countries
• The Intersection of Public Law and Health Care Policies during Pandemics
• Freedom of Speech and Press: Legal Boundaries and Political Implications
• The Impact of Public Law on Economic Development and Trade Policies
• Gender Equality Legislation: Comparative Studies of Different Nations
• The Role of Public Law in Regulating Artificial Intelligence and Technology

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Political Science Research Topics

What we have here is analysis and an in-depth study of processes that relate to politics. A scientist can approach certain event and study cause-and-effect of an issue, study political leader personality or write reflection essay about police officers behavior that have bias towards African American teenagers or those that wear a hood. It does cover sensitive topics, yet what makes it unique is scientific approach along with paper structure. Political science research paper topics should be researchable and include sufficient amount of academic sources. Here are some topics to consider:

• The Political Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Global Governance
• Analyzing the Role of Social Media in Modern Political Revolutions
• The Influence of Space Exploration on International Relations and Policy
• Political Consequences of Climate Change on Small Island Developing States
• The Rise of Virtual States: Implications for Traditional Sovereignty
• Cyber Warfare and Its Effects on National Security Policies
• The Politics of Pandemics: COVID-19 and Global Political Transformations
• The Role of Youth Movements in Shaping Contemporary Political Agendas
• The Impact of Cryptocurrencies on National and Global Economics
• Political Dimensions of Deep Sea Resource Exploitation
• The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Political Campaigns and Elections
• The Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Shaping Environmental Policies
• The Politics of Water Scarcity and Its Global Security Implications
• The Intersection of Neuroscience and Ethics in Political Decision Making
• The Future of Work: Political Responses to Automation and AI in the Labor Market

Political Theorists Research Topics

As with any scientific field, theorists works take honorary place, especially when student should complete dissertation and include extensive literature review. To make matters easier, it is recommended by most college professors in the United States to examine works and political science theorists legacy. While such paper may not provide answers to global issues. Moreover, students can also choose comparative politics research questions by comparing several important personalities. Check this research topic ideas:

• The Political Theories of John Rawls and Their Contemporary Relevance
• Hannah Arendt's Analysis of Totalitarianism in the 21st Century
• Michel Foucault's Concept of Power and Its Application in Modern Politics
• The Influence of Thomas Hobbes' Leviathan on Modern State Theory
• Karl Marx's Critique of Capitalism: Relevance in Today's Global Economy
• Machiavelli's The Prince and Its Impact on Modern Political Leadership
• The Contributions of Simone de Beauvoir to Feminist Political Thought
• Jürgen Habermas and the Concept of the Public Sphere in Democratic Societies
• Max Weber's Theory of Bureaucracy and Its Modern Interpretations
• The Political Ideas of Frantz Fanon and Post-Colonial Studies
• Isaiah Berlin's Two Concepts of Liberty and Modern Liberal Thought
• Ayn Rand's Objectivism and Its Influence on Libertarian Politics
• The Relevance of Rousseau's Social Contract in Contemporary Political Debates
• Antonio Gramsci's Theory of Cultural Hegemony and Its Modern Applications
• John Stuart Mill's Utilitarianism and Its Role in Contemporary Policy Making

Political Conflicts Research Topics

Ranging from economic battles and elections to interests of each country in natural resources, most American senior college professors in different disciplines advice choosing social issues topics . Just look at countries that are in the middle of conflicts and focus on causes & effects at each stage. Here are several research topic examples:

• The Geopolitical Dynamics of the South China Sea Dispute
• The Political and Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen: Causes and Consequences
• The Role of International Actors in the Syrian Conflict
• The Impact of Brexit on Political Stability in Europe
• The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: Historical Roots and Future Prospects
• The North Korean Nuclear Crisis: Regional and Global Implications
• The Political Ramifications of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
• The United States-Iran Tensions: A Study of Escalation and Diplomacy
• The Venezuelan Crisis: Political, Economic, and Social Dimensions
• The Kashmir Conflict: Historical Background and Current Developments
• The Role of Ethnicity in the Rwandan Genocide
• The Cyprus Dispute: A Study of Divided Nations and International Mediation
• The Impact of Climate Change on Political Conflicts in Africa
• The Political Aftermath of the Arab Spring in the Middle East
• The Role of Resource Wealth in Fueling Conflicts in Sub-Saharan Africa

Political Science Research Topics on Conflict Resolution

It studies peaceful resolution methods of conflicting issues that vary from custody battles, gender bias in the workplace, and up to international conflicts with several countries involved. Most conflicts relate to social studies project topics because there is always socio-cultural argumentation to start with. Each conflict should be analyzed by offering background, methodology, clear structure, and strong thesis. Here are interesting topics for brainstorming:

• The Effectiveness of the United Nations in Mediating International Conflicts
• Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Reconciliation in Rwanda
• The Role of Women in Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution
• The Impact of International Sanctions on Conflict Resolution
• The Oslo Accords: Lessons in Middle East Peace Negotiations
• The Use of Track II Diplomacy in Resolving International Disputes
• The Challenges of Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration in Post-Conflict Societies
• The Role of Regional Organizations in Conflict Resolution: The Case of ASEAN
• The Impact of Natural Resources on Conflict and Its Resolution in Africa
• Cyber Conflict Resolution: Emerging Trends and Strategies
• The Role of International Courts in Resolving Territorial Disputes
• The Impact of Climate Change on Resource Scarcity and Conflict
• The Effectiveness of Peacekeeping Missions in Civil War Situations
• The Role of Grassroots Movements in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
• The Influence of External Actors on Internal Conflict Dynamics and Resolution Strategies

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Political Science Research Topics on Mediation & Negotiation

While negotiation deals with finding suitable compromise or conditions in a process, mediation stands for intervention in certain dispute with an aim to resolve it. It can be compared to arbitration, yet with involvement of good third party that is impartial. Topics also relate to conflicts and elections often covered by media.

• The Role of Mediation in Resolving the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
• International Mediation Efforts in the Syrian Civil War
• The Effectiveness of UN Mediation in Global Conflict Zones
• The Impact of Cultural Differences on International Negotiation Processes
• The Use of Shuttle Diplomacy in Modern International Relations
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Conflict Mediation
• Mediation Strategies in the South China Sea Territorial Disputes
• The Influence of Economic Interests in International Negotiation Outcomes
• The Challenges of Mediating Conflicts in Failed States
• The Evolution of Mediation Techniques in Diplomatic Relations
• The Role of Track II Diplomacy in De-escalating Political Tensions
• The Impact of Social Media on Public Perception of International Negotiations
• The Use of Mediation to Resolve Electoral Disputes in Developing Countries
• The Effectiveness of Good Offices in International Dispute Resolution
• The Role of International Law in Mediation and Negotiation Processes

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Home » 300+ Political Science Research Topics

300+ Political Science Research Topics

Political Science is a fascinating field that deals with the study of governments, public policies, and political behavior. It encompasses a wide range of topics , from the intricacies of international relations to the workings of democratic systems. Political Science research has a crucial role in understanding these phenomena, analyzing them, and suggesting solutions to societal problems. There are various Political Science research topics that researchers can explore, and each topic offers a unique perspective on the field. In this article, we will discuss some of the most interesting Political Science research topics that have significant implications for society.

Political Science Research Topics

Political Science Research Topics are as follows:

• The effects of globalization on national sovereignty
• The role of political parties in shaping policy outcomes
• The impact of the media on political decision-making
• The effectiveness of international organizations in promoting global cooperation
• The relationship between democracy and economic development
• The influence of interest groups on political outcomes
• The role of political ideology in shaping policy preferences
• The impact of identity politics on political discourse
• The challenges of democratic governance in developing countries
• The role of social media in shaping political attitudes and behavior
• The impact of immigration on electoral politics
• The influence of religion on political participation and voting behavior
• The effects of gerrymandering on electoral outcomes
• The role of the judiciary in shaping public policy
• The impact of campaign finance regulations on electoral outcomes
• The effects of lobbying on policy outcomes
• The role of civil society in promoting democratic accountability
• The impact of political polarization on democratic governance
• The influence of public opinion on policy decisions
• The effectiveness of international sanctions in promoting human rights
• The relationship between corruption and economic development
• The role of the media in promoting government transparency
• The impact of social movements on political change
• The effects of terrorism on domestic and international politics
• The role of gender in shaping political outcomes
• The influence of international law on state behavior
• The impact of environmental policy on economic development
• The role of NGOs in promoting global governance
• The effects of globalization on human rights
• The relationship between economic inequality and political polarization
• The role of education in promoting democratic citizenship
• The impact of nationalism on international politics
• The influence of international trade on state behavior
• The effects of foreign aid on economic development
• The role of political institutions in promoting democratic stability
• The impact of electoral systems on political representation
• The effects of colonialism on contemporary political systems
• The relationship between religion and state power
• The role of human rights organizations in promoting democratic accountability
• The impact of social welfare policy on economic inequality
• The influence of cultural identity on political behavior
• The effects of globalization on cultural diversity
• The role of civil liberties in promoting democratic citizenship
• The impact of globalization on labor rights
• The effects of climate change on international politics
• The role of identity politics in promoting social justice
• The influence of populism on democratic governance
• The impact of economic sanctions on state behavior
• The role of international conflict resolution in promoting peace
• The effects of globalization on the distribution of wealth and power.
• The impact of social media on political polarization
• The effects of campaign finance laws on elections
• The role of interest groups in shaping public policy
• The effectiveness of international human rights organizations
• The causes and consequences of political corruption
• The impact of globalization on national sovereignty
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion
• The influence of public opinion on policy making
• The relationship between economic inequality and political participation
• The effects of electoral systems on representation
• The role of political parties in democratic governance
• The relationship between religion and politics
• The effectiveness of peacekeeping operations
• The impact of immigration on political systems
• The relationship between environmental policy and economic growth
• The effects of globalization on labor rights
• The effectiveness of international trade agreements
• The impact of populism on democratic institutions
• The causes and consequences of political violence
• The relationship between nationalism and globalization
• The role of international organizations in conflict resolution
• The effectiveness of international sanctions
• The impact of media ownership on news coverage
• The relationship between political culture and democracy
• The effects of social movements on policy change
• The role of civil society in democratic governance
• The relationship between gender and political participation
• The effectiveness of public-private partnerships in delivering public services
• The impact of foreign aid on economic development
• The role of civil-military relations in democratic governance
• The relationship between foreign policy and national security
• The effects of decentralization on public service delivery
• The impact of trade on labor standards
• The role of international law in regulating state behavior
• The relationship between economic sanctions and regime change
• The effects of political advertising on elections
• The role of executive power in democratic governance
• The impact of social welfare policies on poverty reduction
• The relationship between civil liberties and national security
• The effects of globalization on the environment
• The role of international organizations in promoting human rights
• The relationship between migration and security
• The impact of privatization on public service delivery
• The role of civil society in promoting social justice
• The effects of political polarization on policy making
• The relationship between international law and national sovereignty
• The impact of international aid on governance and democracy
• The impact of political polarization on democracy
• The role of social media in political activism
• The effects of lobbying on government decision-making
• The dynamics of international conflict resolution
• The impact of globalization on the power of nation-states
• The relationship between economic development and democratization
• The effectiveness of international aid in promoting democracy
• The role of international organizations in shaping global governance
• The impact of corruption on democratic institutions
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion and political outcomes
• The impact of political advertising on voter behavior
• The relationship between political participation and social identity
• The role of civil society in promoting democracy
• The impact of political parties on democratic governance
• The impact of globalization on environmental policy
• The impact of globalization on labor standards
• The impact of globalization on human rights
• The role of international law in promoting global justice
• The impact of trade policy on domestic politics
• The impact of international trade agreements on labor standards
• The impact of international trade agreements on the environment
• The impact of military spending on economic development
• The impact of military intervention on democracy
• The impact of military intervention on human rights
• The impact of military intervention on international security
• The impact of income inequality on democratic institutions
• The impact of income inequality on social welfare policy
• The impact of income inequality on public health
• The impact of income inequality on education policy
• The impact of cultural diversity on political representation
• The impact of cultural diversity on social welfare policy
• The impact of cultural diversity on education policy
• The impact of cultural diversity on public health
• The impact of social movements on economic policy
• The impact of social movements on foreign policy
• The impact of social movements on civil rights
• The impact of populism on democracy
• The impact of populism on foreign policy
• The impact of populism on economic policy
• The impact of populism on social welfare policy
• The impact of nationalism on international relations
• The impact of nationalism on domestic politics
• The impact of nationalism on economic policy
• The impact of nationalism on civil rights
• The impact of technology on political power
• The impact of technology on political participation
• The impact of technology on democracy
• The impact of social media on political communication
• The effectiveness of campaign finance regulations
• The role of interest groups in shaping policy outcomes
• The influence of media bias on public opinion
• The impact of demographic changes on electoral outcomes
• The role of identity politics in shaping political attitudes
• The effects of term limits on legislative behavior
• The relationship between authoritarianism and economic development
• The effectiveness of public opinion polls in predicting election outcomes
• The role of political parties in democratic consolidation
• The impact of judicial activism on policy outcomes
• The relationship between public opinion and policy outcomes
• The effectiveness of citizen initiatives in promoting policy change
• The impact of globalization on political institutions
• The effects of campaign advertising on voter behavior
• The relationship between nationalism and foreign policy
• The impact of voting laws on political participation
• The role of interest groups in shaping foreign policy
• The effects of social movements on political change
• The relationship between democracy and economic growth
• The effectiveness of lobbying on policy outcomes
• The impact of the media on political polarization
• The role of international norms in promoting human rights
• The relationship between government corruption and economic development
• The effectiveness of policy diffusion in promoting policy change
• The impact of trade policies on economic growth
• The role of international institutions in managing global crises
• The effects of populism on democratic governance
• The relationship between foreign aid and economic development
• The effectiveness of proportional representation systems in promoting democracy
• The impact of social media on political participation
• The role of civil liberties in democratic governance
• The effects of decentralization on governance
• The relationship between nationalism and democratic governance
• The effectiveness of public-private partnerships in promoting economic development
• The role of the military in democratic governance
• The effects of federalism on policy outcomes
• The effectiveness of conflict resolution strategies in promoting peace
• The impact of political polarization on policy outcomes
• The role of transparency in promoting democratic governance
• The effects of immigration policies on social cohesion
• The relationship between gender and political representation
• The effectiveness of international human rights law in promoting accountability
• The impact of social media on political participation and voter behavior.
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion on immigration policies.
• An analysis of the impact of economic inequality on democratic participation.
• A study of the effect of international aid on development and political stability in low-income countries.
• A comparative analysis of the political systems of China and the United States.
• An examination of the impact of political polarization on the effectiveness of democratic governance.
• The role of political parties in shaping government policies and programs.
• The impact of lobbying on government decision-making.
• An analysis of the impact of political corruption on economic development.
• The role of civil society organizations in promoting democratic governance.
• A study of the effect of public opinion on foreign policy decision-making.
• An examination of the role of interest groups in shaping environmental policy.
• The impact of globalization on the distribution of wealth and power.
• An analysis of the impact of campaign finance laws on the electoral process.
• The role of the judiciary in protecting individual rights and freedoms.
• A comparative analysis of the healthcare systems of developed countries.
• An examination of the impact of terrorism on civil liberties and human rights.
• The role of international organizations in promoting global governance.
• An analysis of the impact of social movements on political change.
• A study of the effect of political violence on democratic governance.
• The impact of political ideology on public policy.
• The role of the executive branch in shaping foreign policy.
• An examination of the impact of gender on political representation and leadership.
• The impact of climate change on global security and governance.
• A comparative analysis of the education systems of developed countries.
• An analysis of the impact of gerrymandering on electoral outcomes.
• The role of the military in shaping foreign policy and national security.
• The impact of populism on democratic governance.
• An examination of the role of civil liberties in protecting individual rights.
• The impact of political polarization on social welfare policies.
• The role of political elites in shaping public policy and decision-making.
• The impact of the media on the political agenda-setting process.
• A study of the effect of political institutions on economic growth.
• The role of international law in shaping global governance.
• The impact of nationalism on international relations.
• An analysis of the impact of immigration on social cohesion and integration.
• The role of trade agreements in shaping global economic governance.
• A comparative analysis of the electoral systems of developed countries.
• An examination of the impact of economic sanctions on global governance.
• The impact of public opinion on the implementation of social welfare policies.
• A study of the effect of military intervention on democratic governance.
• The role of international human rights law in protecting individual rights and freedoms.
• The impact of populism on social welfare policies.
• An analysis of the impact of religious institutions on political decision-making.
• The role of non-state actors in shaping global governance.
• The impact of political discourse on political behavior and attitudes.
• A study of the effect of globalization on income inequality.
• The role of international trade in shaping global economic governance.
• An examination of the impact of colonialism on modern political systems.
• The impact of regionalism on international relations.
• The role of media bias in shaping public opinion on political issues.
• An analysis of the impact of populism on democratic governance.
• A comparative study of the political systems of democratic and authoritarian regimes.
• The impact of gender on political representation and decision-making.
• A study of the effect of the European Union on national sovereignty and democracy.
• An examination of the role of civil society in promoting democracy and human rights.
• The impact of immigration on social welfare policies in developed countries.
• A comparative analysis of the healthcare systems of developed and developing countries.
• An analysis of the impact of corruption on economic development and political stability.
• The role of interest groups in shaping public policy and decision-making.
• The impact of international organizations on global governance and cooperation.
• A study of the effect of campaign finance regulations on political campaigns and electoral outcomes.
• An examination of the role of the judiciary in protecting individual rights and liberties.
• The impact of political ideology on foreign policy decision-making.
• A comparative analysis of the education systems of developed and developing countries.
• An analysis of the impact of nationalism on international relations and global governance.
• The impact of climate change on national security and foreign policy.
• A study of the effect of military intervention on human rights and democracy.
• An examination of the impact of gerrymandering on electoral outcomes and representation.
• The role of non-state actors in shaping global governance and decision-making.
• The impact of economic inequality on democratic participation and representation.
• A comparative analysis of the electoral systems of democratic and authoritarian regimes.
• An analysis of the impact of social movements on political change and decision-making.
• The role of civil liberties in protecting individual rights and freedoms.
• A study of the effect of international trade agreements on global economic governance.
• An examination of the role of interest groups in shaping environmental policy and decision-making.
• The impact of populism on social welfare policies and economic development.
• An analysis of the impact of political polarization on the effectiveness of democratic governance.
• The impact of colonialism on modern political systems and institutions.
• A study of the effect of economic sanctions on global governance and cooperation.
• An examination of the impact of religious institutions on political decision-making and human rights.
• The role of regionalism in shaping international relations and global governance.
• The impact of social media on political participation and activism.
• An analysis of the impact of international aid on development and political stability in low-income countries.
• The role of the executive branch in shaping foreign policy and national security.
• A study of the effect of political violence on democratic governance and human rights.
• The impact of trade policy on global economic governance and cooperation.
• An analysis of the impact of political corruption on economic development and political stability.
• The impact of public opinion on foreign policy decision-making and international relations.
• A study of the effect of military spending on economic growth and development.
• An examination of the role of civil society organizations in promoting democratic governance and human rights.

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Political science plays an important role in how we shape the world around us. It offers insight into governments, political systems, public policies, international relations, and more. This makes it a broad subject to explore. But it can also be challenging to find a captivating political science research topic. 

To make things easier, we’ve collected multiple political science research paper topics that suit any taste and need. We made a step further and divided these ideas into accessible categories. Choose the area you are most interested in and get ready to find a bunch of political science research topics in your domain.

But first things first, let’s figure out what politics is all about.

What Are Political Science Research Topics?

Politics is the study of governments, public policies, and political processes. It investigates how societies make decisions. Political science also examines how decisions affect people, both on a small scale, like a neighborhood, and on a global scale, like international relations.

Political science research paper topics can range widely within this discipline. Depending on your interests and goals, you could explore anything from voting behavior to gender equality in politics. You can also study global diplomatic relations, electoral systems, or the influence of media on political outcomes.

Characteristics of Good Political Science Research Paper Topics

Politics shapes our world in myriad ways. Every aspect of it bears relevance and offers a platform for thoughtful discourse, making it a fertile field for academic exploration.

However, good political science topics aren’t just about selecting a subject itself. Great ideas require elements of intrigue, relevance, and potential for in-depth examination, all while showcasing your input. So, what should you consider while choosing between different political research topics? Well, your passion and expertise are pivotal. Your topic should resonate with your interests and align with your academic focus.

Here's a brief overview of characteristics that make up engaging political science research topics:

• Relevant and contemporary
• Balanced in its scope
• Well-documented and containing enough material
• Interesting to you as well as your readers
• Suitable for follow-up studies and/or additional research.

How to Choose a Political Science Research Topic?

Stumped about which political science topic to choose for your research paper? It's a common dilemma for many students. You shouldn’t just pick a theme. You must ensure that your topic sustains your interest, meets academic requirements, and resonates with your audience.

No need to stress, though! This blog is here to help you navigate these tricky waters. Our online essay writer team has shared these step-by-step guidelines to help you choose a successful topic for your political science paper:

• Start with something you’re passionate about. Your enthusiasm and interest will animate the project and guide you to success.
• Come up with an original idea that hasn’t been explored in depth before or is still relevant today.
• Find something that’s timely and engaging to a wider audience. This should be something that people care about and are actively discussing.
• Look for hidden connections, patterns, and solutions. Make sure your political science research topic is complex enough to ensure in-depth research.
• Gather the necessary materials beforehand. Ensure availability of information before you begin analyzing your theme.

List of Political Science Research Topics

Before you plunge into our expertly compiled list, remember to double-check your instructor's guidelines. Aligning your choice with your course requirements is vital. Now, prepare to browse through the most captivating politics research topics that could be the launchpad for your future paper.

• Understanding democracy: An evolving concept.
• Rise of populism in 21st-century politics.
• Climate change and global governance.
• Role of United Nations: Effectiveness and criticisms.
• Politics behind nuclear disarmament.
• Influence of social media on political campaigns.
• Immigration policies: A comparative study.
• Human rights and foreign policy.
• Impact of political instability on economic growth.
• Cybersecurity in international relations.
• Decoding political symbolism in public spaces.
• Feminism and its political impact.
• Role of youth in politics.
• Is healthcare a political issue?
• Examining political bias in media.

Easy Political Science Research Topics

While the field of political science can seem intricate, there are areas within it that are more accessible, yet equally intriguing. If you're new to the discipline or prefer less complex issues, this list of simple political science paper topics could be your go-to. Each topic is designed to offer an easy entry point into political science, but still, provide room for critical analysis .

• Defining basic political ideologies: Liberalism, Conservatism, and Socialism.
• How does voting work? An overview.
• Impact of political cartoons on public opinion.
• Presidential vs. parliamentary systems.
• Role of lobby groups in shaping policy.
• Political satire and its influence.
• Environmental policy: Understanding basics.
• What role does local government play?
• Does every vote count in elections?
• How accurate are public opinion polls?
• Politics in sports.
• Privacy rights in a digital era.
• Gender representation in politics.
• Patriotism vs. nationalism: Understanding the difference.
• Role of celebrities in political campaigns.

Interesting Political Science Research Topics

Political science never falls short of captivating topics. With its dynamic nature and its intricate connection to real-world issues, there's always something noteworthy to explore. We've done our utmost to curate a list of topics in political science that will pique anyone’s curiosity:

• Lessons from literature on dystopian governance.
• The war on drugs policy.
• What influence does propaganda have on contemporary governance?
• How governing ideologies influence art.
• Balancing national security with personal freedoms.
• Importance of whistleblowers in democratic societies.
• Rhetoric and reality behind political speeches.
• Implications of artificial intelligence on governance.
• Attainability of world peace: A critical perspective.
• Dynamics of power in non-democratic systems.
• Global pandemics and their effects on governance.
• Competing for Mars: A new space race.
• Impact of religion on governance.
• Perspective on animal rights from a political viewpoint.
• Food accessibility: Who decides who gets to eat what?

Good Topics for a Political Science Research Paper

Scoring points with your professor often comes down to choosing compelling and thought-provoking research paper ideas . The following list includes good political science research questions that are in tune with contemporary discourse. Each topic offers plenty of room to showcase your analytical skills and knowledge.

• Evaluating e-democracy: Benefits and drawbacks.
• How migration policies shape nations.
• Media as a tool for political persuasion.
• Political philosophy in science fiction literature.
• Trade wars and global relations.
• Is there a global shift towards autocracy?
• Understanding diplomatic immunity: Rights and abuses.
• Role of non-state actors in shaping international policy.
• Rise of nationalism in globalized societies.
• Impact of climate change on national security.
• Examination of censorship laws across nations.
• Can blockchain technology revolutionize voting systems?
• Decoding political rhetoric in campaign promises.
• Gender pay gap: A policy analysis.
• Influence of economic inequality on social unrest.

Best Political Science Research Topics

We have curated an irresistible list of political science topics for a research paper. These ideas range from pressing international issues to more granular policy questions, all guaranteed to challenge your analytical skills.

• Exploring causes and effects of global populism.
• Transparency as a key to ethical political leadership.
• Evaluating the role of social media censorship in political landscapes.
• Influence of multiculturalism on policy development.
• Unpacking the outcomes and justifications of military interventions.
• Corruption's destructive role in democratic systems.
• Merits and pitfalls of technocracy.
• Interplay of bureaucracy and governance.
• Pathways to address political polarization.
• Effects of historical colonization on current government structures.
• Role of extremism in shaping international relations.
• How global climate commitments affect nations.
• Using sanctions as a diplomatic tool.
• Conflict resolution through international law.
• Geopolitics in outer space exploration.

Current Research Topics in Political Science

Political science is a progressing field, so the problems you research will always be relevant. Our list of up-to-date topics of political science will help you make sure your paper is on point.

• Artificial intelligence in global governance.
• Global health governance in pandemics.
• Impact of digital currencies on economies.
• Changes in contemporary immigration attitudes.
• Climate crisis' role in diplomatic dialogues.
• Social movements and societal change.
• Tech giants and information control.
• Civil liberties in pandemic responses.
• Gender disparities in political representation.
• Decolonization trends in the 21st century.
• Cyber warfare and national security.
• Ethics of drone warfare.
• Crypto-anarchy and state sovereignty.
• Right-wing extremism in the digital age.
• Power dynamics in international space law.

Political Science Research Topic Ideas for Students

Navigating politics can be overwhelming for students, given its broad nature and intersecting disciplines. With the right research topics for political science, however, this complexity transforms into an opportunity for a decent study. Our list of political science research topics ideas is designed with students in mind, focusing on engaging, relevant, and manageable themes.

Political Science Research Paper Topics for College Students

For college students, political science topics for research papers should strike a balance between complexity and approachability. With that in mind, here's a collection of college-level political topics to write about.

• Leadership styles across governments.
• Impact of gender roles in election campaigns.
• Role of think tanks in shaping public opinion.
• Studying historical revolutions and their aftermath.
• Influence of socio-economic status on voting behavior.
• Exploring ethical dilemmas in international relations.
• Cultural diplomacy and its effectiveness.
• Sovereignty disputes and their resolution.
• Rise and implications of digital citizenship.
• Evaluating meritocracy as a system of governance.
• Role of peacekeeping operations in conflict resolution.
• Comparing capitalist and socialist economies.
• Decoding cyber diplomacy in the digital age.
• Relationship between economic crises and political changes.
• Minority rights in democratic societies.

Political Science Research Topics for University

When it comes to political topics to talk about in university, politics offers a variety of interesting options. Here's a list of captivating research ideas that are sure to get you top grades:

• Political revolutions in the digital age.
• Comparative study of political systems.
• Effectiveness of international climate agreements.
• Unraveling political consequences of economic sanctions.
• Studying neocolonialism in modern economies.
• Impact of income inequality on social stability.
• Debating political implications of universal basic income.
• Role of international courts in global governance.
• Influence of cultural diversity on national policies.
• Dissecting geopolitics in Arctic resource exploitation.
• Understanding post-conflict reconciliation processes.
• Evaluating state responses to refugee crises.
• Study of civil disobedience in democratic societies.
• Role of soft power in international relations.
• Disentangling politics of global water disputes.

Political Science Research Topics by Subjects

Political science is a diverse field, consisting of multiple subdomains. To help you spot a fitting theme, we've organized research paper topics for political science according to these subjects. From international relations to public policy, this assortment promises a treasure trove of research opportunities just waiting to be explored.

Philosophy Political Science Research Topics

Philosophy politics research topics explore the intersection of political science and philosophical thought. These themes focus on fundamental questions, such as the purpose of politics and its effects on society. Here are a few ideas to get your started:

• Relevance of Machiavelli's theories today.
• Understanding justice in Plato's Republic.
• Influence of Kantian ethics on governance.
• Are human rights universal or culturally relative?
• Interplay of liberty and equality in societies.
• Exploring Hobbes' notion of social contract.
• Rawls versus Nozick: theories of justice compared.
• Feminist perspectives on political participation.
• Role of ethics in bureaucratic institutions.
• Marx's theory of capitalism: A critical review.
• Foucault's perspectives on power and control.
• Locke's influence on modern democracies.
• Concepts of civil disobedience in Thoreau's writings.
• Arendt on violence, power, and authority.
• Exploring Gramsci's theory of cultural hegemony.
• Derrida's deconstruction: A political tool?
• Nietzsche’s perspectives on societal structure.
• Understanding politics through Spinoza's lens.
• Evaluating communitarianism in contemporary societies.
• Habermas on communicative action in politics.

>> View more: Philosophy Paper Topics

Political Science Research Topics on Public Law

Public law is one of the most popular subdomains of political science, as it focuses on legal systems and state power. It's a domain that lets you explore how laws are formulated, implemented, and impact society. Below you can find various political research questions in public law, including constitutional issues, administrative governance, and individual rights, among others.

• Role of constitution in shaping governance.
• Impact of judicial activism on democracy.
• Analyzing separation of powers in governments.
• Free speech rights in digital platforms.
• Repercussions of surveillance laws on privacy.
• Comparative study of electoral laws.
• Analyzing federalism in constitutional law.
• Police power and civil liberties.
• Effectiveness of anti-discrimination laws.
• Administrative discretion: Power and accountability.
• Impact of immigration laws on societies.
• Understanding lawmaking process in parliamentary systems.
• Role of supreme courts in constitutional interpretation.
• Law enforcement and minority rights.
• Legal aspects of environmental protection.
• Hate speech laws and freedom of expression.
• Public health laws in times of crisis.
• Legal mechanisms to fight corruption.
• Analyzing gun control laws across nations.
• Legal challenges in the implementation of welfare policies.

>> Learn more:  Law Research Topics

Research Topics in Political Science on Public Administration

Public administration is the study of how governments and other public institutions are managed. It examines their structures, operations, policies, and politics to understand how they work in practice. Here's a collection of project topics for political science on public administration worth attention:

• Understanding bureaucracy in modern governance.
• Role of public administrators in policy implementation.
• Effect of administrative reforms on public services.
• Importance of ethics in public administration.
• Evaluating public financial management systems.
• Role of e-governance in public service delivery.
• Analyzing gender representation in public administration.
• Public administration in urban planning.
• Role of public-private partnerships in governance.
• Crisis management strategies in public administration.
• Leadership challenges in public organizations.
• Role of transparency in public service delivery.
• Organizational culture in public administration.
• Analyzing the politics-administration dichotomy.
• Decision-making processes in public organizations.
• Evaluating accountability mechanisms in public administration.
• Human resource challenges in public services.
• Impact of corruption on public administration.
• Role of citizens' participation in public administration.
• Comparative study of public administration models.

Political Science Research Paper Topics on Comparative Politics

Comparative politics research topics offer a window into how different political systems operate, what works, and what needs reevaluation. It encourages you to step outside the boundaries of your local context and grasp a more global perspective on political processes. The following political essay topics and paper ideas will fit any compare and contrast essay or project.

• Social welfare measures across democracies.
• Examining stability in different governmental systems.
• Comparative analysis of electoral mechanisms.
• Impact of societal culture on governance.
• Federalism versus unitary systems: A comparative study.
• Scrutinizing corruption in diverse economies.
• A cross-nation study of education systems.
• Protection of minority rights across countries.
• Comparing freedom of the press globally.
• Role of armed forces in various governmental structures.
• Analyzing constitutional designs across nations.
• A study on decentralization efforts in different countries.
• Comparative research on party systems.
• Gender and leadership: A cross-country examination.
• Populism in different societal contexts.
• Comparative view of environmental conservation measures.
• Human rights protections in different nations.
• Influence of colonial history on modern governance.
• Cross-national study of immigration rules.
• Role of religion in different governance systems.

Political Science Research Topics on Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution is an essential field in political science, focusing on the methods and strategies used to mitigate disputes on local, national, and international levels. It opens up opportunities to explore how peace is achieved, maintained, and sometimes lost. Below you can find political issues to write about if you want to focus on different disputes.

• Peacebuilding strategies in post-war societies.
• Role of diplomacy in averting conflicts.
• Effectiveness of international arbitration.
• Power sharing as a tool for peace.
• Influence of civil society on conflict resolution.
• Role of United Nations in global peacekeeping.
• Mediation strategies in intra-state conflicts.
• Women in peace negotiations.
• Strategies for resolving territorial disputes.
• Analyzing post-conflict reconciliation processes.
• Impact of economic sanctions on conflict resolution.
• Role of international law in conflict mitigation.
• Effectiveness of non-violent resistance.
• Analyzing the success of peace treaties.
• Study of disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration processes.
• Resolving resource-based conflicts.
• Role of third parties in conflict resolution.
• Approaches to addressing ethnic conflicts.
• Influence of climate change on conflict resolution.
• Cyber conflict resolution strategies.

Political Science Research Topics on Meditation and Negotiation

Mediation and negotiation sit at the heart of conflict resolution, focusing on peaceful strategies to address disputes and foster cooperation. These techniques find wide application in various contexts, from local disagreements to international conflicts. These interesting research topics in political science allow you to understand how these processes work in theory and practice:

• Role of intermediaries in peace processes.
• Strategies for successful diplomatic discussions.
• Comparative analysis of negotiation techniques.
• Dialogue styles in international diplomacy.
• Analyzing the success of secret diplomatic talks.
• Role of non-state actors in negotiation.
• Gender dynamics in discussion processes.
• Influence of cultural factors on dispute resolution.
• Role of international organizations in diplomatic dialogues.
• Arbitration in maritime territorial disputes.
• Use of discussions in trade agreements.
• Role of trust in successful dialogues.
• Addressing power asymmetry in discussions.
• Track II diplomacy in mediation.
• Impact of communication technology on dispute settlement.
• Role of empathy in successful negotiation.
• Influence of domestic politics on international mediation..
• Conflict resolution strategies in labor disputes.
• Role of transparency in negotiations.
• Evolution of dispute resolution techniques over time.

>> View more: Communication Research Topics

International Relations Political Research Topics

International relations explores connections among nations, the roles of sovereign states, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, and multinational corporations. This field offers a multitude of engaging research topics ranging from issues of diplomacy, international conflict, global cooperation, to international trade. Here are some political science research ideas that focus on international relations:

• Role of multinational corporations in global governance.
• Cross-border environmental cooperation.
• Effectiveness of international law enforcement.
• Influence of globalism on sovereignty.
• Impact of digital diplomacy in foreign relations.
• Evolution of global power structures.
• Influence of cultural diplomacy in global partnerships.
• Strategies for global poverty reduction.
• Understanding geopolitics in Arctic exploration.
• Challenges to global health collaboration.
• Role of non-state actors in global governance.
• Interplay of economics and international relations.
• Humanitarian interventions: A critical analysis.
• Cross-border migration and its global implications.
• International responses to global pandemics.
• Role of international courts in justice delivery.
• Diplomacy in the age of information technology.
• Analyzing global disarmament efforts.
• Global efforts in counter-terrorism.
• Evolution of international trade agreements.

American Politics Research Paper Topics

American politics is a wide-ranging field, including issues from the local, state, to national levels. It incorporates diverse aspects like public opinion, public policy, ideological shifts, and more. The United States' unique political system offers abundant potential for research. Here are American politics research topics for your next project:

• Evolution of American federalism.
• Impact of Supreme Court decisions on society.
• Understanding American political polarization.
• Role of third parties in U.S. elections.
• Influence of social movements on legislation.
• Examining executive orders' effectiveness.
• Shifts in public opinion on climate change.
• Impact of lobbying on American health care reform.
• Influence of Presidential debates on voters.
• Effects of gerrymandering on electoral outcomes.
• Analyzing campaign finance reform in U.S.
• Role of think tanks in shaping U.S. policy.
• Implications of immigration reform on U.S. economy.
• Gun control debate and policy outcomes.
• Social justice and law enforcement reform.
• Influence of race and ethnicity on voting patterns.
• Role of the media in shaping public opinion.
• Analyzing the U.S. response to global pandemics.
• Examination of U.S. trade policies.
• Impact of technology on U.S. governance.

Government Research Paper Topics

Government is a broad field that includes many different subdomains and politics topics to discuss. It revolves around the structures, processes, and functions of governing bodies, allowing you to explore the inner workings of various political systems. Here are some useful ideas on government:

• Evaluating the meritocracy in civil services.
• Digitization of public services: Impact and challenges.
• Understanding state surveillance: Balancing security and privacy.
• Impact of decentralization on local development.
• Government's role in disaster management.
• Analyzing the government's role in fostering innovation.
• Study on government initiatives for financial inclusion.
• Role of government in mitigating income inequality.
• Government strategies in promoting renewable energy.
• Analysis of government responses to recessions.
• Public-private partnerships in infrastructure development.
• Government regulation of the gig economy.
• Role of government in promoting cultural heritage.
• Public sector reforms for better governance.
• Government interventions in housing markets.
• Assessing government transparency initiatives.
• Government's role in universal health care provision.
• The impact of political term limits on governance.
• Government initiatives in curbing the opioid crisis.
• The role of governments in combating online misinformation.

Political Science Research Questions

Research questions provide a clear direction to your studies, defining what you want to achieve. Here are some unique research questions for political science that span a wide array of sub-areas:

• How does social media shape public opinion on climate change policy?
• How can local governments boost civic engagement?
• How does income inequality impact political participation?
• How do trade policies affect domestic industries?
• How do immigration laws influence national identity?
• How does political advertising affect voter turnout?
• How does corruption impact public trust in government?
• How does gender representation in government influence policy decisions?
• What role does education play in political awareness?
• How does political satire influence public perception of politicians?
• How have government responses to pandemics evolved over time?
• How does foreign aid impact the donor-recipient relationship?
• How can governments leverage technology to improve public services?
• How does cybersecurity impact national defense strategies?
• How do international treaties impact national sovereignty?
• How do political ideologies shape foreign policy?
• How can governments promote sustainable urban development?
• What is the role of youth in shaping future politics?
• How does political stability affect economic growth?
• How does political rhetoric shape public perception of immigration?

Extra Political Science Topics for Research Papers

Although the topics for political science research papers given above should help you kickstart your project, here are a few extra ideas to make sure you write an excellent project:

• Green parties' influence on environmental sustainability.
• Significance of political graffiti in social movements.
• Virtual reality's potential in public engagement.
• Role of cognitive psychology in voter behavior.
• Understanding biopolitics: control and manipulation.
• Space law's implications for international cooperation.
• Implications of Internet of Things (IoT) for national security.
• Analysis of language used in peace treaties.
• Incorporating indigenous governance in modern state systems.
• Decoding humor in political satire.
• Political underpinnings in fantasy literature.
• Political landscapes in virtual communities.
• The politics of cryptocurrency regulation.
• Using machine learning to predict election outcomes.
• Role of street art in political protests.
• Exploring the politics of veganism.
• Political dimensions of genetic engineering ethics.
• Pop culture's influence on political consciousness.
• Influence of climate fiction ("cli-fi") on environmental policy.
• Geopolitical consequences of the commercialization of space.

Bottom Line on Political Science Topics

We did our best to provide you with an assortment of good topics for political science research paper in every subdomain. Whether you're interested in philosophy, public law, international affairs, or something else entirely – this collection should have it all. We hope that at least one of these themes motivates you to do your best work yet! Remember that you can buy coursework or any other academic paper from certified writers with solid experience.

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200 Unique Political Science Research Topics

Political science is an interesting field which covers the study of government, politics, and public policy. It is an intriguing subject hence you get plenty of potential areas to explore for research. All you need is to choose a good research topic to craft a masterpiece.

Speaking of which, are you having issues choosing a research topic? Don’t worry, we have huge lists of amazing topics here from a professional  paper help  to get you started. Let’s read them all.

Table of Contents

Top Political Science Topics to Ace Your Research Paper

Political science has loads of potential topics for research. Hence, it’s a great opportunity for you to make a mark academically with this paper. Let’s get started with our first list!

Interesting Political Science Research Topics

If you want to delve into the complexities of international politics, go for a topic from this list.: 

• Afghanistan in international relations
• The Great Afghan Game and its impact
• The national interest of The States: from the origins to the era of multilateralism
• The political history of the United States geopolitics institutions government
• Security and Geopolitics Strategies
• The transformation of international economic and geopolitical relations
• Public Opinion and Foreign Policy
• European Union public opinion regarding Middle Eastern Affairs
• European integration foreign policy for Albania
• Soft power: the case of the United States and China
• China vs. the United States: Soft power affairs and the role of Media
• University course of Political Sciences and International Relations
• Strengthening the capacities of the European Union’s international relations after the Lisbon Treaty
• The Uniting for Peace resolution and its impact on the United Nations’ practice
• Iraq from a province of the Ottoman Empire to the fall of the monarchy (1514 – 1958)
• History of Islamic Middle East
• International relations of Iraq During the Ottoman Empire
• Cyberwar: instability in international relations
• America’s political and trade relations with Iran
• The Case of North Korea 
• Weapons of Mass Destruction in Iraq
• Agreements, conflicts and power strategies
• Vladimir Putin’s Foreign Policy and Post-Ukrainian-War relations with the world
• Ukraine between East and West
• Sport and International Relations
• UN and the IOC for the protection of human rights
• Nonverbal and intercultural communicative competence for tourism promotion
• US Energy Security Strategies
• Russia and China: history of relations from 1949 to 2012 and oil relations from 1992 to 2012
• From the Silk Road to the natural gas route: geopolitics and international relations in Central Asia
• The Evolution of a Political Phenomenon
• Relations between Russia and the European Union from 1992 to today and the impact of the Russo-Ukrainian War
• Chinese diplomacy in Africa: an example of strategic cooperation
• Recent international aspects of the China-US relationship
• The evolution of the international discipline relating to climate change
• The difficult relationship between Saudi Arabia and the United States
• China and the international legal system
• Diplomatic aspects of the Balkan wars

Public Law Political Science Research Topics

Check out our selection of interesting legal inquiries and explore the world of Public Law. Here you go with the list:

• Private economic activity and public administration: mutual limits and collaboration tools
• Public services and local public services
• The role of the municipality in the constitutional and European framework
• Local autonomy and fiscal federalism
• The concept of the Republic and the reorganization of territorial autonomies 
• The protection of fundamental rights between domestic law and European law
• Legal reserves and the principle of legality
• The guarantee of democratic control
• The nullity of the administrative provision
• The administrative precautionary judgment
• Constitutional law, administrative law and Public economic law
• The constitutionalizing of the subsidiarity principle
• The protection of competition between the State and the Regions
• The division of jurisdiction in the American constitutional system
• National law and community law
• Legality, impartiality and good performance of the Public Administration
• Constitutional principles of administration
• Internal and external relations of the European Union
• Regulations, procedures and organization regarding European structural funds
• The institutions of the European Union
• International organization
• The American judicial area and the free circulation of civil and criminal judgments
• International civil procedural law
• Private international law
• Internal and international criminal procedure
• International cooperation in criminal matters
• Comparative law of the environment
• Citizenship, immigration and asylum
• Constitutions and constitutionalism

Top Political Science Research Topics

Check out this list of thought-provoking political science topics. Here’s the list:

• State reform and political culture
• Electoral processes, political parties, political groups
• Civil society, social movements, collective action and political culture
• Political role regarding human rights
• National security
• Scenarios of politics and power
• Political processes
• Federalism and state reform in Europe
• Legislative powers in the United States of America
• Public security, justice and rule of law
• Transition to democracy
• Democratization
• Political culture
• Reform of the state
• Problems of political change 
• Political socialization and values of democracy in the child population
• Political system
• The political system in the States
• Comparative political culture
• Exclusion, participation and citizenship
• Political organization
• Participation of the workers
• Government, processes and social actors
• Public opinion and political behavior
• Comparative political institutions
• Electoral processes and voter behavior
• Political transition
• Political and electoral communication and marketing
• Campaigns and elections
• Mass media and political transition
• Comparative political transformations in Latin American countries
• Globalization and trade unionism in Mexico and Brazil
• Religion and politics, religion and economics
• Political parties and electoral systems
• Actors and leaders Global Political Powers
• Political conflict and social order
• Legal system and institutional designs
• Structural reforms in comparative perspective
• Democratic consolidation
• Democracy and rule of law
• Civil society, political culture, governance

Political Theory Research Topics

• The Idea of Political Theory
• Varieties of Political Theory
• The foundations of a fair policy
• Power: politics, identity and the Law
• Political thought as theory
• Research about political ideologies
• The founding political ideologies in modernity
• Difference between liberalism, socialism and conservatism
• Approaches to their divergences and affinities
• The positive and analytical theory of politics
• Institutions and problems of institutional design
• Contemporary Political Philosophy
• Liberalism, Marxism, Libertarianism, Feminism, and Communitarianism
• Contemporary political realism
• The foundations of a secular order
• The question of modernity in political America
• The search for the sources of moral and/or political energies
• The search for transparency and certainty
• The intellectual pre-conditions of modernity
• The impossibility of emancipation
• The Rule of Law and its aporias: Sovereignty, Exception and Constituent Power
• The “technical” nature of political power
• The moral problem for political power
• The question of political realism
• Power as a contingency of the human
• Power as self-government: the techniques of democracy
• From the Idea of Justice to the practice of Justice
• Multiculturalism and Justice
• The question of the feminists and the idea of Justice
• Different principles for the Idea of Justice
• Justice, collective interest, common good and rights

Political Science Research Questions

• What are the primary factors influencing voter turnout? 
• To what extent does the media’s framing of political events influence public opinion? 
• What are the key drivers behind the persistence of authoritarian regimes in certain regions? 
• How does international cooperation on climate change mitigation and adaptation vary? 
• What are the implications of emerging disruptive technologies? 
• How do different electoral systems affect representation and governance outcomes?
• What are the main challenges and opportunities in crafting effective immigration policies? 
• What role does identity politics play in shaping the dynamics of conflict? 

Research Title About Politics

• The Heights of Discord: the Golan between Syria and Israel
• The use of conventional weapons, and chemical or bacteriological weapons
• The use of nuclear weapons
• Exclusive use of conventional weapons
• Wars of colonial liberation
• International Wars
• International regional wars
• International bilateral wars
• Direct and unilateral political violence
• Common criminal violence
• Political assassination
• State terrorism in Kashmir
• Human rights and political violence
• Terms of damages to civilians
• War and Violence in the Middle East
• Youth violence in urban contexts
• Collective action – Mechanisms of the dispute
• Consciousness, values, identities and ideologies
• Analysis of the weight of structures in the transition from traditional to modern society and from this to the current one

Conflict Resolution Research Topics

• Challenges for social research and public policy
• Studies on the post-conflict, coexistence and the role of civil society
• Conflict studies
• The conflict and the vicissitudes of building a national project
• Modernization, conflict and democracy
• Reconciliation and the role of Civil Society
• Difficulties in carrying out fieldwork
• Results of the fieldwork
• The reconstruction of the conflicting events
• The study of community conflict through biographical interviews
• The observation of conflicting parties
• Symbolic disputes, authority and representation
• New intermediaries: migrant agents
• Transnational communities: changes and continuities of communities
• Social drama and contentious language
• The community as a political and intermediary process
• The community as a sense of belonging
• Local government and system of uses and customs
• Derivatives of a concept: the community in sociology and anthropology
• The perspective of intersectionality for the analysis of intra-community conflict
• Passion and political culture
• Towards a proposal for the analysis of political conflict: the production of antagonisms
• Analysis of international conflicts from the Sociology
• Celebration between the different levels of analysis
• Types and classification of elites
• Analysis tools and methodological concepts
• Agents, population and linear power relations
• Power and power resources
• Sociology of Power and conflict analysis

Good Topics in Political Science (Mediation and Negotiation)

Still looking for a research topic about politics? Check out this list. 

• Restorative justice and reconciliation
• International law and treaty law 
• Race and ethnic relations
• International organization for mediation and negotiations
• International negotiations
• Mediation: skills and applications
• Negotiation: skills and applications
• Understand the conflict
• Basic course on mediation and conflict resolution
• Argumentation and critical thinking
• Presence and involvement of the parties in the resolution of the dispute
• Difficulties and dilemmas in the political processes of mediation and negotiation
• Preliminary questions on political mediation and negotiation
• Collecting the relevant information to negotiate
• Behavior and positions of those involved in the negotiation
• General policies, established by those who promote the negotiation
• Identification of contingencies and their probability of occurrence
• Specific policies that are applicable to the negotiation itself
• Challenges Of Business Mediation in Europe
• Would Mediation Be Adequate and Beneficial for Resolving Business Disputes?
• Application And Development of Business Mediation
• Business Mediation
• Principles Of Mediation
• Conciliation, Mediation, Negotiation and Arbitration

Conflicts In Politics Research Topics

• Contemporary history cold war
• Political studies and conflict resolution
• Comparative analysis of public policies and actions aimed at health promotion and prevention of Covid-19
• International Conflicts: Manners of Solution and International Humanitarian Law
• International Conflict Resolution Means
• Diplomatic or Political Media
• International Humanitarian Law of War
• Basis of the Obligation of International Humanitarian Law of War
• Juridical-Legal Basis of International Humanitarian Law
• Geneva Convention to improve the fate of the Wounded and Sick of the Armed Forces in Campaign
• II Geneva Convention to improve the fate of the Wounded, Sick and Shipwrecked of the Armed Forces at Sea
• Relative to the protection of victims of International Armed Conflicts
• Relative to the protection of victims of non-international armed conflicts
• Mechanisms to control compliance with International Humanitarian Law in armed conflicts
• Role Played by the International Committee of the Red Cross
• Time of Peace: Complies with the teaching and dissemination of the norms of International Humanitarian Law
• Sanctions for Non-compliance with International Humanitarian Law
• Criminal Responsibility of the Individual

Comparative Politics

• Islamist regimes: the case of Iran
• The democratic institutions
• The crisis of democracy
• The quality of democracy
• The processes of transition and democratic consolidation
• The political transitions in Eastern Europe
• The Westminster model and the Westminster model of democracy consensus
• The parliamentary regime, presidential regime, semi-presidential regime and semi-parliamentary
• The concept of democracy
• Communist regimes: the case of China
• Populist and nationalist regimes
• Traditional and tribal systems
• The military and civil-military dictatorships
• Authoritarian and totalitarian regimes
• The formation of political systems in Europe and the USA
• Neocolonialism and economic dependence on the Third World
• Reform and revolution
• The construction of the nation-state in Africa and Asia
• The institutionalization of power
• The process of political modernization
• Dynamics of political systems: development and change
• Cultural and political socialization
• Social groups: pressure groups and social movements
• The socioeconomic structure: market and planning
• The social environment of political systems
• Political system and decision process
• Dynamic and institutional comparability
• Research methods in political science

No doubt political science gives you a lot of options for research. But you have to pick a good one which will guide you in the right direction. Hopefully this blog post has helped you pick a topic or two to work on. 

If you still have problems choosing a topic or dealing with political science assignments, do count on the professional expertise of  our writers .

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Political Science Research Topics

Coming up with good political science research topics may seem like a daunting task. Whether you’re interested in foreign policy, international conflict, or immigration policy, it is worthwhile to take some time to research and find out which topics are currently relevant before diving into research. You want a topic that is manageable and meaningful. After all, you are going to invest a good deal of time and effort in answering the central questions of your project.

In this article, we will show you ten examples of political science research topics for bachelor’s degree students. We also show you how to craft political science research questions that work. With this list of currently relevant political science research paper topics, you can be sure you’ll work on something meaningful and relevant.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong political science research topic.

A strong research topic is original and relevant. It builds on previous studies published by reputable sources. It’s broad enough to be relatable but narrow enough to be unique. To get some ideas, you can explore the most recent topics published in Cambridge University Press’s American Political Science Review . It covers all areas of political science, from American politics to foreign relations.

Ask teachers from your academic department what they are currently writing about. Talk to your academic advisor if you can’t find a strong topic. Finally, make sure that your topic follows the guidelines set by your teacher.

Tips for Choosing a Political Science Research Topic

• Pick a meaningful topic. The research will be more enjoyable if you find it personally interesting. For instance, if immigration policy is a topic of personal value to you, you can center your research topic around it and this will help you stay engaged in your research.
• Discuss research ideas with classmates. They can help you find insight from a fresh perspective.
• Make sure your topic has a manageable size. One of the major requirements for choosing a topic is making sure that it will be manageable. Explore some key questions in your chosen field until you narrow your own topic down to something you can take on successfully.
• Use reputable sources. Choose authoritative articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Make sure you choose the ones relevant to your topic, whether that is democratic governments, the political behavior of a particular group, or a particular authoritarian regime.
• Join the current scholarly debate. Make your topic part of cutting-edge research. Discussing things like current forms of government or current political events will help you ensure your chosen topic will contribute to salient issues of political theory as well as critical policy debates.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is a focused area of study in a scientific field or subfield. The goal of the research question is to narrow down that area even further. By answering the research question, you contribute to understanding the topic. The research question guides your research and writing, leading you to make a contribution to that particular topic and field.

How to Create Strong Political Science Research Questions

Gather information on your topic to get familiar with the current research. Find an interesting aspect to explore. Identify the gaps in the research mentioned in articles about your topic. Now, try to find a question that would address that gap.

Start your question with what, why, when, or how. The question must be clear and focused. You can also use guides to develop a research question by narrowing the topic to help you get started.

Top 10 Political Science Research Paper Topics

1. building government capacity to address global environmental challenges.

Complex tradeoffs are part of environmental policy, especially in the 21st Century. Green technology investments can boost the economy and create jobs. But workers in the oil and coal industry will lose them. This is all part of an ongoing discussion about environmental protection and the political attitudes of different groups towards green policies.

The public will support climate policy only if the costs are fairly distributed. Governments have to generate transparent policies to earn the trust of the citizens. This controversial topic demands a good deal of research, an understanding of environmental policy, an analysis of policy outcomes, and the development of new political theories.

2. Influence of Social Movements and Advocacy Groups on Policymaking

The government often makes its policies behind closed doors. In response, social movements organize to get access to and take part in policymaking. Every representative democracy needs the participation of social movements and advocacy groups. They help to hold the American government accountable, ensuring the human rights of citizens are protected.

Social movements and advocacy groups have a powerful influence on public opinion, and can influence the political participation of specific groups. American politics has to consider their ideas to improve political attitudes. Political science researchers have to expand on this topic to understand collective action.

3. Effect of an Interdependent World on the Roles of Governments and Institutions

Many of the policy challenges at a domestic level are now global, and political leaders know this. Governments need policies to regulate institutions, promote international cooperation, and lessen political disputes. They need to train their workforce with a global mindset. This also has a direct impact on political campaigns and electoral politics.

As globalization influences the political development of all nations, government employees are now working on an international stage. They need knowledge of international relations to share knowledge and collaborate. Policymaking for an interdependent world is a relevant political science topic.

4. Prosperity and Equality Through Public Policy

The COVID-19 pandemic is challenging the financial stability of many families. Technological disruptions cause unexpected changes in the international markets. Clearly, we cannot take for granted the economic resilience of the country. The government uses economic policy to protect prosperity and equality. Economic development is a major topic in political science research.

5. Factors Influencing Policymaking Around Taxes, Regulation, and Trade

Tax policy affects economic development and social progress. Economic reform is part of the international conversation on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development . Trade regulation and immigration policies are frequently discussed in political science research, making them a great topic for any aspiring political scientist.

6. Influence of Gender, Race, Class, and Other Aspects of Identity on Policymaking

Diversity and intersectionality are becoming necessary topics in modern politics. Educational institutions and public companies are adopting equity and inclusion goals. The expectations for incorporating diversity in policymaking are higher than ever. Policymaking to prevent discrimination and create the grounds for fair immigration policy is a highly relevant topic.

7. The Role of Government in Providing Affordable Healthcare

Universal Health Coverage (UHU) is a World Health Organization (WHO) initiative to provide global access to healthcare services. The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving this goal.

The COVID-19 pandemic made clear the need for international cooperation in health. International relations theories have to change to make UHU possible. Global health policymaking is a pressing research topic in modern politics.

8. Mitigating Cyber Breaches And Security Challenges Through Policymaking

Countries are adopting cyber security strategies through policymaking. Some of them have a dedicated agency for cyber security. Worldwide, information and technology assets are growing in importance. Cyber security is now part of contemporary world politics and the economic development of nations.

Cyber regulation comes with a whole new set of policymaking challenges that contemporary world politics needs to tackle. It involves international cooperation and coordination. Policymaking to neutralize cyber threats is a growing topic in modern politics research.

9. Harnessing Data for Good Governance

Partnerships between public institutions and private companies facilitate the use of big data. This comes with several institutional challenges, like combining data sources. Regulating data access and addressing privacy concerns will need extensive policymaking. Modernizing data governance is a current topic in political science research.

10. Regulating Disinformation In the United States Through Public Policy

Americans are turning to social media and biased websites to make sense of politics. The proliferation of misinformation is fueling division and polarization, and can depress public confidence and discourage political participation. Regulating disinformation through public policy is becoming an urgent topic.

Regulating freedom of speech is not common in the American political tradition. Political scientists use cost-benefit analysis to find balanced solutions for these complex problems. There are growing opportunities for research on the topic of misinformation regulation and the role of government in the digital age.

Other Examples of Political Science Research Topics & Questions

Political science research topics.

• Ethnic Conflict Between Americans and Arab-Americans in the United States
• Telecommunications Policies in China
• The Supreme Court and Reproductive Rights
• The Evolution of Affirmative Action Initiatives
• The Development of a Constitutional Right of Privacy

Political Science Research Questions

• How can public leaders balance political realities and policy priorities?
• What developments in science and technology are changing political attitudes?
• Will public-private partnerships change the approach of government to public problems?
• How do policymakers navigate the tensions between private power and democratic values?
• How can public policymaking integrate a human rights perspective?

Choosing the Right Political Science Research Topic

It is important to know how to choose a research topic if you want to pursue a political science degree . The right political science research topic is engaging and manageable. Choose a topic that is interesting to you. It will keep you engaged and motivated during the research process. Keep in mind that your initial research topic might change. As your expertise grows, your topic will become more precise.

Political Science Research Topics FAQ

Political science is a field of knowledge that studies political phenomena. American politics, political theories, and international politics are common topics in political science. Political scientists use comparative politics and policy analysis to improve public problems.

Political science research is important because it improves public policies and can lead to necessary legal reform. It helps citizens understand American politics and foreign policy issues. Research in political science improves international cooperation and global environmental policies, and helps us make sense of major world events.

Yes, you can get a political science degree online. You can get a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in political science without going to college. There are several online political science degree options from good universities. With a Graduate Equivalency Degree (GED), you can get a political science associate degree in two years.

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With a degree in political science, you can get a job as a legislative assistant or a campaign manager. Social media managers for political institutions are also in demand. With a graduate degree in political science, you can become a policy analyst or an urban planner. Political scientists can work in either academia or the private sector.

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Political Science Research Topics: Uncovering New Perspectives

• Political Theory

Political Science Research Topics cover a wide range of issues, including power dynamics, governance structures, and political behavior. These topics delve into areas such as comparative politics, international relations, political theory, and public policy.

Some popular research topics in political science include the impact of social media on political activism, the effectiveness of democratic institutions, and the role of gender in political decision-making. Other areas of interest may include the study of political violence, the influence of nationalism on state policies, and the dynamics of political parties in multi-party systems.

Researchers in political science often explore how political systems affect economic outcomes , the role of identity politics in shaping policies, and the impact of globalization on national sovereignty. These topics provide valuable insights into understanding and addressing the complexities of modern political landscapes.

The Evolution Of Political Science Research

Early approaches to political science research.

The early days of political science research were marked by a focus on qualitative analysis of historical and philosophical texts. Scholars delved into ancient political writings and analyzed the political systems of past societies to draw conclusions about governance and power dynamics. This was a crucial period that laid the foundation for the development of modern political science research methodologies.

Modern Methodologies And Techniques

In the contemporary landscape, political science research has evolved to incorporate a diverse array of methodologies and techniques. Quantitative research methods, such as surveys and statistical analysis, have gained prominence, allowing scholars to gather large datasets and draw empirical conclusions. Moreover, qualitative research approaches, such as case studies and ethnographic research, provide in-depth insights into complex political phenomena. The integration of these varied methodologies has enriched the field of political science research, enabling scholars to explore a wide range of political issues with depth and precision.

Impact Of Technology On Political Science Research

The advent of technology has revolutionized political science research, offering new tools and platforms for data collection, analysis, and dissemination. Big data analytics and machine learning algorithms have empowered researchers to handle large volumes of political information and uncover intricate patterns within datasets. The proliferation of digital platforms has enhanced online collaboration and communication among scholars, fostering a global exchange of ideas and research findings. Additionally, technological advancements have facilitated the creation of interactive visualizations and simulations, enabling researchers to present their findings in engaging and accessible formats.

Credit: phys.org

Changing Perspectives In Political Science Research

Political science research is continually evolving, with changing perspectives shaping the way scholars approach the study of politics and governance. In this blog post, we will explore the shifting landscape of political science research, focusing on interdisciplinary approaches, global and local influences, as well as the impact of current events on research topics.

Interdisciplinary Approaches

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches in political science research. Scholars are increasingly integrating insights from fields such as sociology, anthropology, economics, and psychology to gain a more comprehensive understanding of political phenomena. This interdisciplinary approach allows researchers to analyze political issues from multiple perspectives, enriching the depth and breadth of their findings.

Global And Local Influences

Political science research is no longer confined to national or regional boundaries. Instead, scholars are increasingly exploring the interconnectedness of global and local influences on political systems. This shift in focus allows for a more nuanced understanding of how global trends and events impact local governance, as well as how local contexts shape global political dynamics.

Influence Of Current Events On Research Topics

The dynamic nature of politics means that current events often shape the research agenda in political science. From geopolitical shifts to social movements, contemporary events influence the choice of research topics and methodologies adopted by political science scholars. This responsiveness to real-time developments ensures that political science research remains relevant and engaged with the pressing issues of our time.

Emerging Trends In Political Science Research

In the dynamic field of political science research, new and innovative trends are constantly shaping the way scholars understand and analyze the complexities of global politics. As the world faces unprecedented challenges, emerging trends in political science research are shedding light on crucial areas such as environmental politics and sustainability, social justice and equality, and comparative politics and international relations. These evolving themes are providing unique avenues for exploration and understanding within the realm of political science.

Environmental Politics And Sustainability

Environmental politics and sustainability have become paramount concerns as societies grapple with the urgent need to address climate change and environmental degradation. Scholars are delving into the intricate connections between political systems, policies, and environmental sustainability, seeking to understand how governments and international organizations can effectively tackle these pressing issues. Emerging research topics include the role of political actors in promoting environmental conservation, the impact of global agreements on environmental governance, and the intersection between environmental policies and social equity.

Social Justice And Equality

The pursuit of social justice and equality has garnered significant attention in political science research. Emerging trends in this field encompass a wide spectrum of topics, including the examination of policies aimed at reducing inequality, the evaluation of political systems in fostering inclusive societies, and the role of grassroots movements in advancing social justice agendas. Moreover, scholars are exploring the impact of discrimination on political participation and the effectiveness of affirmative action programs in promoting equal representation in governance structures.

Comparative Politics And International Relations

Comparative politics and international relations remain integral areas of study within political science research. The evolving dynamics of global politics have prompted scholars to delve into comparative analyses of political systems, diplomatic relations, and transnational governance mechanisms. Emerging research in this domain encompasses diverse topics such as the influence of cultural factors on diplomatic negotiations, the role of non-state actors in international relations, and the impact of globalization on state sovereignty. Additionally, comparative studies on the effectiveness of different political systems in addressing global challenges have gained traction among researchers.

Exploring Contemporary Political Science Research Topics

In the ever-changing landscape of political science research, there are several contemporary topics that are gaining prominence due to their relevance in the modern political environment. These topics delve into the digital realm, the behavior and opinions of the public, and the analysis of governance and public policy. Here, we will explore these contemporary political science research topics in detail, shedding light on the latest areas of study and investigation in political science.

Digital Democracy And Political Participation

The digital revolution has significantly impacted political processes, creating new avenues for participation and engagement. In the realm of political science research, the study of digital democracy and political participation explores the impact of technology on political processes, the role of social media in shaping political discourse, and the implications of online platforms on citizen engagement. Researchers delve into the dynamics of digital democracy, analyzing the influence of digital tools on political participation and the ways in which they shape political outcomes. Highlighting the intersection of technology and governance, this area of study is pivotal in understanding the evolving nature of democracy in the digital age.

Political Behavior And Public Opinion

Political behavior and public opinion form the bedrock of political science research, delving into the intricacies of how individuals interact with the political system and form their opinions on various issues. Research in this area encompasses the study of voting behavior, political attitudes, and the factors influencing public opinion formation. Scholars investigate the impact of social, economic, and cultural factors on political behavior, drawing insights into the motivations behind individual and collective political actions. Understanding the nuances of political behavior and public opinion is crucial in deciphering the dynamics of political processes and the functioning of democratic societies.

Governance And Public Policy Analysis

Governance and public policy analysis constitute a significant focus in contemporary political science research, offering insights into the mechanisms of decision-making, policy implementation, and the evaluation of governmental actions. Researchers in this field analyze the structures and processes of governance, scrutinizing the role of institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders in shaping public policies. Moreover, the examination of public policy encompasses the assessment of policy effectiveness, the impact of policy decisions on various societal sectors, and the formulation of evidence-based recommendations for policy improvement. The study of governance and public policy analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of governing systems and the implications of policy choices on diverse segments of society.

The Future Of Political Science Research

In the rapidly evolving landscape of political science research, the future holds great promise and presents new challenges. As advancements in technology and changes in societal expectations shape the direction of the field, political science researchers must adapt and innovate to address emerging issues and opportunities. In this article, we will explore key areas of development that are set to influence the future of political science research.

Advancements In Data Analysis And Artificial Intelligence

The proliferation of big data and the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) have revolutionized political science research. With the ability to process and analyze vast amounts of information, researchers can discern complex patterns and correlations that were previously inaccessible. The integration of AI into data analysis tools has significantly enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of research methodologies, enabling scholars to uncover new insights and perspectives. Machine learning algorithms, in particular, have the potential to revolutionize predictive modeling and scenario analysis in political science, offering valuable foresight into future political developments.

Ethical Considerations In Political Science Research

As the capabilities of technology expand, ethical considerations in political science research become increasingly pertinent. The collection and use of data, particularly personal and sensitive information, raise concerns regarding privacy, consent, and data protection. Researchers must navigate the ethical dimensions of their work, ensuring that their methods are transparent, respectful of human subjects, and aligned with ethical standards. Addressing ethical considerations in political science research is crucial to maintaining the integrity and credibility of the field amidst evolving ethical norms and legal frameworks.

Anticipated Areas Of Growth And Development

• Rise of computational political science, leveraging advanced computational methods to analyze political phenomena.
• Increased emphasis on interdisciplinary research, fostering collaborations between political science and other disciplines such as sociology, economics, and environmental studies.
• Integration of qualitative and quantitative research approaches, recognizing the complementary value of both methodologies in generating comprehensive insights.
• Exploration of global political dynamics, with a focus on understanding the interconnectedness of geopolitical events and power structures.

The anticipated areas of growth and development in political science research highlight the expanding scope and depth of the discipline. By embracing technological innovations, addressing ethical considerations, and exploring new avenues of inquiry, political science researchers are poised to contribute significantly to our understanding of political phenomena and their broader societal implications.

Frequently Asked Questions On Political Science Research Topics

What are some trending political science research topics.

Political science research topics that are currently trending include the impact of social media on political movements, the role of climate change in global politics, and the influence of populism on democracy.

How Can I Choose A Unique Political Science Research Topic?

To choose a unique political science research topic, consider focusing on niche areas or underexplored themes within political science. Look for interdisciplinary connections and seek inspiration from current events and emerging global issues.

What Are Some Research Methods For Political Science Topics?

Research methods for political science topics include qualitative and quantitative approaches, content analysis, case studies, surveys, and interviews. The choice of method depends on the specific research question and the nature of the topic being studied.

In considering political science research topics, it’s important to explore diverse areas like comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. These topics offer a wide range of avenues for exploration and analysis, providing ample opportunities for insightful research and academic inquiry.

By delving into these areas, scholars can contribute to a deeper understanding of complex political dynamics and help shape future policy and decision-making.

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Political Science Research Topics: 200+ Captivating Ideas

Students with politics major already understand the profound evaluation in the field of politics and potential power from the domestic, global and comparative outlook. Their supervisors ask them to write a dissertation paper that shows their understanding of the exposition of existential political ideas, behavior, schemes, and procedures and how the nation scrutinizes the law, foreign affairs, communities, and much more.

Political science exhibits theories and conventions of the nation. As a student drafting a political science research paper might be time-consuming, complex, and strenuous for you. Finding interesting political topics to write about can deter you. Your supervisor expects you to draft a concrete research paper, but how can you gather the strength to draft your paper when it seems like your biggest nightmare?

Don’t worry; we have selected 200+ advanced political science research paper topics to help you.

But before we dive into that section, how about understanding a few couples of things?

Table of Contents

Significance of Political Science Research Paper

Drafting an academic research paper is enormously challenging. It comes with many hurdles, but unlike other topics, political studies come with massive dynamics, and its tendency can shift to a great extent. The ideology of your approach and your entire paper makes a huge difference in your content. Political science research paper aims to understand polity-related matters to your readers better.

The excellent approach to drafting your political science research paper is to seek inspiration from your current environment. Don’t be afraid to dig deeper into controversial events. Don’t feel shy to provide a new perspective on the previous matters. Fortunately, when it comes to politics, the inspirations are already scattered around us. That’s why a political science research paper is significant in your academic year. A political science research paper is exceptional when it’s original and innovative. It includes much more than just synthesizing and drafting already published content. Researchers aim to prove to their supervisors that their research is worth publishing. A research work helps you to showcase why your research work is crucial and highlights important practical methods to solve those critical issues.

Limitations of a Political Science Research Paper

Since a research paper has enormous significance in your academics, you must provide accurate context with enough descriptions of your field of study. It helps you to evaluate the relevance and influence of your political study. A political science research paper   is not an easy task. The limitations in your research paper are the general flaws and shortcomings of your content. A research paper requires descriptive and comprehensive content; you do not want to present it with limitations and drawbacks. Your study might have multiple drawbacks and limitations. Keep reading to identify those limitations.

Implementation of Research Data and Statistical Collections:

Since you are a beginner in collecting primary data and information, there are huge chances that your implementation of the source collection procedure might be flawed . It is a potential  methodological  issue that can significantly impact your political research paper.

Conflicts Arising from a Biased Point of View:

Some researchers might hold biased perspectives because of their opinions of specific phenomena or cultural backgrounds. It has the potential to affect your political paper’s authority .  Besides, researchers with biased views of their data and results may support their theory and arguments. Pay considerable attention to the problem statement and effective data gathering.

Limited Access to Data:

Your political research may require the opinion of people and organizations; access to these respondents is extremely difficult for students. It might result in modification of your paper.

Time Constraints:

Needless to say, all research work comes with a deadline .  Researchers might have to submit a draft of their study or face trouble meeting the deadlines of their political science research paper. Time constraints can hugely affect the quality of your study.

Scope of Information:

Most likely, students do not have much understanding in conducting this complex research and writing a political research paper of such vast individuality. The depth and scope of a political paper are compromised at variable levels compared to experienced researchers with immense expertise.

Essential Factors for Choosing Political Science Research Paper Topic

When it comes to politics, some fields require comparison. Political science carries an empirical approach for variable political aspects. Before selecting your political science research topic, you must understand what fascinates you the most.

For starters, look over your local politics and analyze what you can dig out from there. Since the existing political dynamics are taking constant turns, you can use a fine piece of news to draft a magnificent research paper. It will make things much easier for you. However, if you still feel confused, we have listed a few steps that will guide you in selecting the best topic for your political science research paper:

Select the Topic Per Your Interests:

while narrowing down your topics, you must have already anticipated what political aspect fascinates you the most. Perhaps there is a topic that you find the most interesting. Identify those topics and start researching them. You can start narrowing down those political topics and begin studying them. While exploring those, remember not to dive into every detail regarding them. A little preliminary research would do the job.

Identify the Topics that Awaken Your Curiosity:

Writing a political science research paper does not imply you have to write something about an already published case. Instead, you are expected to write a magnificent work that makes everyone curious at every step of their reading. For that, you need to think about the political topics that always made you curious, but you didn’t have the time to explore more. It is your opportunity; use it to make an exceptional political science research paper.

Choose a Challenging Political Topic:

Selecting a challenging political topic will catch your supervisor’s and professors’ attention. They would want to read more about it. Although selecting a politically demanding topic can deter students as it involves a lot of research work. It increases your workload, But isn’t it worth it? A challenging political science topic would enhance your arguments and theories about it. An excellent research paper assures high grades in your academic year.

200 Political Science Research Topics

Our political world is exceptionally expansive. Thus, if you have chosen politics as your field, you know you have proclaimed an abundance of creative ideas for yourself. After getting a rough image of how you can draft your research, it’s time to pick up the scattered pieces and frame the big picture.

Some Amazing Political Science Topics

Suppose you want to understand how something as hideous and significant as political science can be fascinating. In that case, you first need to understand how reachable and astonishing even the most straightforward topics can be.

Nevertheless, if you lack ideas, here are a few great political science topics for your research paper:

• Can we classify nationalism as the right school of leaders in history?
• Post-war conflicts and art legacies
• American foreign policies and their effects on the European policies in the 20th century?
• Why is it vital for the news reporters not to be politically biased?
• Fascism and its faces pre and post world war 2
• Iran oil conflict and how did it devastate the oil market?
• The political and the distribution structure of the Arctica island
• Playing with principals in this political era
• Choosing whom to betray? A compromise between left and right-wing parties.
• Personal ambitions of our political leaders
• Karl Marx: his life and influence on the politics of the 20th century
• Voting made easy: what is the impact of technology on the voting process
• Modern political culture and its dependency upon technology

Also, Read – Economics Research Topics

Comparative Politics Research Topic Ideas

It involves institutional analysis, domestic policy management, foreign issues, and much more. All these factors can be examined by comparative evaluation. Comparative politics research topics would help you make an authentic impression in front of your professors.

For a general idea, you can take a look at these given topics and choose the best one that you like the most:

• The nature and significance of comparative politics.
• A comparative analysis of the domestic policies of the UK and the USA
• A detailed comparison of Abraham Lincoln’s lyceum address with modern political speeches
• How would segregation have worked without Supreme Court?
• Detailed comparison and contrast between foreign policies of the UK and Russia
• Examine the communist structure of the USSR and China
• Comparison and contrast of the Soviet Union’s ideology
• Detailed analysis and the significance of the cultural gap between China and Japan
• Examination of the cultural revolution in the USSR
• Examine the behavioral approach between the US and the UK
• Comparative analyses of liberalism and republicanism
• Examination of the American commercials films and hidden political messages in them
• The triangular relationship between China, America, and India
• Comparative review of the female education in Afghanistan
• The economic battle between China and America
• The complicated relationship between business and politics
• Critical analyses of the American and European federal crimes
• Critically analyze religion as a social power
• Culture as a formidable social strength
• Online crime shows and their impact on constructing crime
• Comparative analysis of any of the two parties of your nation
• Comparative analysis of politics
• Authoritarianism and Totalitarianism: Strategies for democratization
• Comparison between the American and the African political heritage
• Comparative analyses of egalitarianism with utilitarianism
• The reasons behind conflict and resolutions in the US
• The modernization theory and the sociological study of developments
• A decade of feminism: Relationship between women and the modernization theory
• Research, theory, and realities of modernization
• The methods and theories of comparative politics
• Rationality, religion, and structure in comparative politics
• New identical tools and methods in comparative political economy
• The new comparatively political economy
• Comparative analyses of the political economy of the UK and the USA
• The theory and critique of the political economy
• Concept and theories of global political economy
• Theory of political economy of Karl Marx
• Principles of comparative politics

Research Topics on International Politics

From international poverty to global ethics, human rights to environmental issues, globalization to international security, these things happening in the international arena cannot go unnoticed. If you are still considering topics for your  research proposal , international politics would significantly impact your research.

Here are some research-related topics that you might use in your political science research paper.

• Detailed analysis of the human rights in Uganda
• Syrian collapse: how did Syria end up between two political fronts?
• Regional and political effects of Shiite jihad
• Understanding global poverty causes
• Injustice and resistance to global poverty
• Mexico: the problem of forced and illegal migrants
• Excluding illegal migrants from the USSR
• Illegal migrants: why are the union citizens converting themselves into illegal migrants?
• Capturing illegal migrants in Mexico, Thailand, and Malaysia
• The causes and effects of the Syrian conflict
• Russian aggression against Ukraine and its impacts
• China: the new overlord of the 21st and 22nd century
• The economic war between Russia and Ukraine: why does Putin remain tight to his chair?
• Impacts of 2019 protests and how did it embrace the future of France
• The characteristics and impacts of the sanctions imposed on Russia as the consequence of the aggression against Ukraine
• European social model and the post-national Europe
• Measurement of Global security network analysis
• The battle of Syrian refugees and the race of legal status of the united states
• A descriptive analysis of the international monetary fund structure
• Perception and the misconception of the rational theory of the international politics
• Global poverty crises and the Amnesty international controversy
• Industry, war, and arctic circle battles
• Research on international designs in political science
• Political battles of ideas and discourses’ between nations
• The feminists around the international political grounds
• Comparison analysis of modern versus traditional international economy

Also, Read – Learn Important Steps to Write a Research Statement

Political Science Philosophy Research Topics

Everyone knows that political science research topics can be extremely fragile and complex. There are numerous ideas dispersed throughout your research paper. This polity section deals with the most abstract levels of government, liberty, legal code mechanics, democracy, and arguments involved in political opinion.

This subject is concerned with arguments and discussions on how society needs to be set up and what new implications should be applied.

Here are some of the philosophical and political topics to write about:

• Nationalism versus philosophies
• Role of Greek-Roman philosophers in building modern politics
• Philosophies practiced by the Germans and Karl Schmidt
• Writings and political philosophies of Karl Marx
• Decision-making powers of the judicial
• Why did Rome fail: A critical analysis of the declined empire
• Comparative analyses of the modern and ancient political philosophy
• Jean Bodin and his mixed critics of sovereignty
• Globalization issues and political events that lead to Nazism
• Introduction to contemporary political philosophy
• Contemporary political philosophy: how it shaped and changed the modern political science
• The traditional disciplines of political philosophy
• Greek: the philosophical hotspot in ancient times
• History of the western political philosophy
• Anthropology of Western contemporary political philosophies
• Social and political philosophies of the Rousseau
• A contemporary analysis of the western political philosophies
• The USA followed the similar Trajectory as Ancient Rome
• Jean Bodin and his concept of sovereignty: what failed him to see about sovereignty
• Modern capitalism: culture and critical features that define modern capitalism

Few Controversial Political Science Research Questions

There are a few topics that trigger a specific section of our society. It triggers controversies and is prone to up-heave variable issues. These issues consist of conflicts and controversies.

Here are a few controversial political science research questions and topic examples:

• Amnesty International report : 2020-2021 The state of the world’s human rights
• An international perspective on violence against women
• The political response to terrorist attacks over the globe
• Corruption: the impacts and how can police unions minimize it?
• What is the nation doing to deal with the massive wave of immigrants?
• The ideal punishment for rapists and serial killers
• Measurement of the severity of the violence against women scale
• Prevention of domestic violence against women?
• The implications of controversies in politics
• Gender identity and expression: what is the nation doing to prevent transgender people?

American Politics Research Topic Ideas

American politics is something that will never bore you. If you find American politics attractive, you can also consider choosing a topic from this section.

For starters, you can have a look at these few American politics research topic ideas:

• African and American prisoner conflicts
• Australia and America: how do the economic policies differ?
• Political polarization in America during the Covid-19 pandemic
• The political and economic battle between America and China
• Challenges and opportunities associated with political polarization
• Public relations of America with other nations
• Role of the American Government in public relations with other nations
• American government and its role in shaping its democracy?
• Tools and the propaganda used by the American parties to win the elections?
• Democracy in America: principles used by Americans to establish democracy in the nation
• Comparative analysis of the current American parties to their 1960s predecessors
• The impact of the American civil war on the modern American government
• Foreign direct investment: Democracy and corruption in South America
• Political corruption and reform in South America
• American political culture: the vision of a developed society and redemption in modem America
• Detailed analyses of the modern political structure of America
• The congress and the court: the study of American political cultures
• 1952-1996: the era of political decline of the American political parties
• The consensus and Agendas of American politics.’
• A history of the American political cultures
• Political preferences and theories of the American Government
• Agendas and polarization of American political cultures
• The public relations actors in the American economic politics
• Mass media and political elections
• Transformation of American politics
• The political evolution of America from the 1960s
• False equivalences: online activism in theory and in practical
• Online Activism, mediated politics, and social movements in contemporary America
• The behavioral approach to the growth and development of contemporary America
• Renaissance of the current political culture of America
• Idea and concept of American political culture
• The American Democracy: effects of 2020 elections on the American democracy
• American Civil war: what were the political and economic crises that led to the civil war
• American politics during the Civil war
• The republican culture: how it was introduced and evolved in America
• The economic and political relationships between America and North Korea
• The significant place of Hispanic US politics currently
• Importance of news coverage of US elections
• Examine the analysis of the Donald Trump and Barak Obama administration
• Security leadership conflicts post-9/11
• Post 9/11, security collaboration and leadership conflicts
• Establishing development to converse terrorism: post 9/11 transformation of US aid to Africa
• The USA in preserving its national security
• The conflicts of the American – African prisoners
• American foreign policy and how it changed after the war?
• Public opinion and the United States foreign policy
• American heritage: the political history of the United States

Current Research Topics in Political Science

The field of political science focuses on the branch of empirical approach, using comparative methods. The current US politics is rocky, which makes it much more enthusiastic.

If you find the current events exciting and want to research more about them, we have selected the top 20 fantastic topics for you:

• Attempt an analysis of the traits of typical American politics
• Examine the analysis of the administration of Donald Trump and Joe Biden
• Examine the role of American nationalism in the face of Globalization
• Definition of social constructivism in the American context
• Submit the evaluation of fraud in US elections
• Life of African American politicians
• Analyze the significant levels of minorities in the US
• Law of the United States: the civil law traditions
• Life of Jimmy Carter and his impact on America
• Life of Saddam Hussein and the essential impacts on the American politics
• The Vietnam War: what made it turn into the American war?
• The US VS Russia: the political and economic similarities between Russia and America
• Significance of falling to vote for shaping political tenures
• Relationship between politics and the poverty in the Sub Sahara African politics
• Significance of meme culture in building political awareness
• Modern and Apartheid Segregation in modern America
• Significance of the internet in shaping modern political awareness
• The obligations and the rights of voters in Modern America
• The Electoral College: should the American government abolish it or give it more power?
• The Democrats and the Republicans: alike or the same?

Topics on Constitution and Constitutionalism

If you find these topics attractive, here are the top 9 topics regarding constitution and Constitutionalism:

• Existential western constitutionals law
• The constitutional vision of John Rohr
• Existentialism in modern constitutional law
• Constitutional laws: Why every state has different constitutional laws?
• Duel constitutionalism and the amending process in America
• The American Constitutionalism: the rights and liberties of an American citizen
• Non-liberal Constitutionalism in the US
• Revolutions in the American constitution
• Constitution and Constitutionalism in modern America

Topics on Democracy and Democratization

Democracy and democratization refer to the transition to a more democratic political environment. Researching more about this would help you to draft a magnificent research paper.

If you already have a few ideas on your mind, that’s excellent, although if you still cannot figure out the topic, here are some impressive topics on democracy and democratization for you:

• The incomplete democracy and democratization in America
• Difference between presidential and parliamentary democracy
• Explain liberal democracy justification
• The democratic government: legitimacies of an authorized democratic government
• A comparative analysis of the democracy laboratories of contemporary America
• Prospects of democracy and democratization for globalization
• The comparative politics and concepts of democracy and democratization
• Radical democracy in America
• The evolution of democracy to democratization
• liberal prospects and the limitations of democratization

Conclusion –

When there are individuals involved, situations tend to become more complicated. It is why political research topics are complex to analyze and study.

Most students who plump for politics as their significant subjects do not only desire to become politicians. Instead, they prefer to become professional experts in politics, making them the future of our economy.

Considering you attended all your lectures and exemplified your research papers- you are already doing your best, and you will be fine. Nevertheless, if you still feel difficult to move forward with your research proposal, you can also consider seeking research paper help service from Edumagnate . They can guide you to build a good cornerstone for establishing political wisdom.

We salute those students and wish them good luck with the challenging hurdles coming ahead in their political science studies.

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Top Political Research Topics for 2022

Getting an idea of what branch of political science you want to investigate before you research helps to provide structure and meaning to your paper.

Political science is a diverse and expansive subject, with many unique disciplines. Developing a quality political science blog or essay begins with choosing the right topic. Getting an idea of what branch of political science you want to investigate before you research helps to provide structure and meaning to your paper.

What Makes an Interesting Political Research Topic?

In order for a political topic to be interesting, it must be both engaging and relevant .

The process for choosing a topic that meets both the criteria starts when the author defines what branch or field of political study they want to investigate. From there, political scientists  can narrow down their focus until they’ve pinpointed the perfect topic for their research.

Political Science Research Topics: Domestic

There is no shortage of pertinent and insightful topics pertaining to domestic issues in the United States. If you’re looking for a political science research topic for the US, consider writing about any one of these complex issues.

• The perception of the Black Lives Matter Movement across the political divide.
• Potential candidacies for the upcoming 2022 midterm elections. 
• The state of the 2nd amendment in 2022.
• What changes should be made to the US constitution?
• What rights should Americans have regarding their internet privacy?
• How should the Biden administration handle the border between the US and Mexico?
• Should revisions be made to the current two-party system of politics?
• Write about the potential implications of a reconstruction era under President Lincoln.
• Should there be a cap on immigration to America?
• Should the electoral college be abolished?
• How should politicians work to battle disinformation?
• What does “freedom” mean in America?
• How can politicians work to increase political participation among the youth?
• Should America adopt a socialist economic system?
• America’s role as a global military power.
• How to enfranchise minority voters in America.
• The controversial legacy of the Patriot Act.
• How to tackle America’s decaying infrastructure.
• Should some form of reparations be paid to the African American community for racial injustices done to them? (i.e. slavery, Jim Crow, Redlining)
• America’s role in the global War on Terrorism.

Political Science Research Topics: International

Diving into topics related to international politics can help bring a more diverse audience into your readership. Consider researching one of these international political science research topics.

• How should global powers work to better prevent pandemics from worsening in the future?
• What should be done - if anything - to curb the power of global financial institutions?
• Human rights violations in Kazakhstan.
• The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. 
• Is the United Nations effective at achieving its stated goals?
• How should the current generation work to preserve the planet for future generations?
• What should be done to address global poverty?
• How can new technology be used to address over-consumption in the industrialized world?
• Does social media increase global co-operation or foster nationalism? 
• What do rising sea levels mean for coastal populations? 
• Who has a right to the Arctic circle?
• Should sanctions be put on Israel for illegal actions taken in the Gaza strip?
• What should be done to address corruption in global politics?
• Should corporations be fined for working with suppliers that use slave labor?
• The Syrian Civil War.
• Wildfires in Australia.
• Rising global ocean temperatures and the implications.
• Increasing tensions at the Ukrainian/Russian border.
• Should there be agreed upon international standards for internet privacy?
• Global immigration trends.

Political Science Research Topics: Comparative Politics

Comparative political topics involve investigating two or more positions, groups, or phenomena for the purposes of developing new insights. Tackling any one of these topics is a great way to start developing your comparative political science abilities.

• United Kingdom vs. European Union Politics
• United States vs. European Union Politics
• Declining forest rates in the Amazon vs. the United States
• How should world governments work to avoid another global war?
• Secular Nations vs. Religious Nations
• Collectivism vs. Individualism
• The concept of “Manifest Destiny” and how it compares to other forms of imperialist thought.
• Erosion of democracy in countries across the world.
• What are some of the root causes of political violence?
• Western Colonialism vs. Eastern Imperialism 
• Tensions in the middle east: 1970’s vs. Today
• North Korea vs. South Korea
• Causes of immigration around the globe
• How has the perceived efficacy of the federal government changed decade over decade?
• How have technological innovations in the 21st century shaped our lives - for better, and for worse?
• The controversy surrounding Taiwan’s recognition as an independent nation.
• Response to COVID-19 in the U.S. vs. other nations.
• Illicit drug use in America vs. Europe.
• The developing political landscape of contemporary Africa
• Israel & Palestine. 

Political Science Research Topics: Philosophy

Some of the most thought-provoking political science subjects pertain to philosophy. Exploring these political science essay topics can help widen your view of the world and expand your insights.

• Are our political beliefs influenced more by reason, or by emotion?
• Are we born with set political beliefs?
• How should prisoners be treated by the law?
• Ethical concerns surrounding globalization.
• War: Is there ever a situation where it is morally permissible?
• Should one allow their religious views to impact their politics?
• What is more important: freedom, or safety?
• The complex relationship between morality and legality.
• The death penalty.
• The legality of drugs.
• The differences between Eastern and Western political ideology.
• Does the state have a monopoly on violence?
• War propaganda in the entertainment industry: is it immoral, or overstated?
• Discuss internet misinformation and its destabilizing effect on global political structures.
• How does today’s idea of “democracy” hold up to the common definition of the concept in the early 20th century?
• Discuss the radicalizing effects of alienation in society.
• Egalitarianism vs. Utilitarianism 
• Are covert government operations ever morally justifiable or necessary?
• Who should be held accountable for crimes committed during a war?
• Do unethical political means justify ethical outcomes?

Political Science Research Topics: Law

The law and its interpretations are one of the most controversial and contentious fields in the realm of political science. Legal analysts and lawyers spend extensive amounts of time researching precedent and past cases in order to develop their arguments. Here are some of the most pertinent topics being discussed in recent years.

• The illegality of cannabis in the Federal government.
• The Human Rights act of 1998.
• Bail reform.
• What limitations should be placed on police interrogation methods?
• How should the federal government work to secure voting rights in America?
• States’ rights.
• Gender bias in custody battles.
• Criminalization of the homeless.
• Corruption in the judicial system.
• Constitutional amendments.
• Should the internet be regulated as a public good?
• How can the judicial system work to hold wealthy & influential criminals accountable?
• Police accountability.
• Transparency in the legal system.
• LGBT protections.
• Expansions on environmental protections.
• The Jeffrey Epstein case.
• Expunging records for citizens with marijuana priors.
• Discuss the benefits and concessions that come with having a jury of your peers.
• Do we need laws prohibiting the use of AI for specific activities (i.e. war)?

Political Science Research Topics: Economics

Economic research is another highly specialized field of political science. These topics pertain to all manner of issues related to finance, commerce, trade, policy, and more. 

• The financialization of public life.
• Rising global inflation.
• The economic impact of COVID-19.
• What should be done about the lack of affordable housing in the United States?
• Who should have to pay for the efforts to tackle climate change?
•  How can global economic institutions be held accountable for their role in facilitating illegal activities (i.e. money laundering, tax avoidance)
• Discuss the global economic fallout caused by the 2008 Financial Crisis.
• Why do so many young Americans feel alienated and disenfranchised by Capitalism?
• National conservatism vs. Economic globalism.
•  How has the phenomenon of American companies moving their manufacturing overseas negatively impacted the financial security of the United States?
• Should the US do away with the greenback?
• The rise of Cryptocurrency as a global financial system.
• Work-from-home: revolutionary, or transitory?
• How should world governments hold the global 1% accountable for paying their taxes?
• Should the government provide more economic stimulus to struggling companies owned by minority business owners?
• The economic realities of libertarian theory.
• Is global capitalism effective at managing and solving problems in the 21st century?
• What new economic theories have taken shape in the last two decades?
• The “gig economy”.
• Why does poverty exist in the world’s wealthiest country?

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Comparative Politics

One of the central themes of comparative politics is the study of political institutions, including constitutions, electoral systems, legislatures, judiciaries, and bureaucracies. Comparative analysis of political institutions can reveal the strengths and weaknesses of different governance systems, as well as the conditions that promote or hinder effective decision-making and democratic participation. For example, the comparison of electoral systems across different countries can provide insights into the ways in which electoral rules affect voter behavior, party competition, and representation.

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Get 10% off with 24start discount code, comparative politics research paper topics.

• The impact of different electoral systems on party systems
• The role of civil society in promoting democratic norms and practices
• Comparative analysis of the welfare state in advanced industrial democracies
• The effect of gender quotas on political representation
• Comparative study of judicial activism and judicial restraint in different legal systems
• The relationship between economic development and political liberalization
• The role of political culture in shaping democratic consolidation
• The impact of decentralization on political power and accountability
• The politics of immigration and border control in different countries
• Comparative analysis of public opinion and political behavior in different societies
• The role of the media in shaping political opinion and decision-making
• The impact of globalization on state sovereignty and power
• Comparative study of civil-military relations in different societies
• The relationship between natural resources and political stability
• The impact of international organizations on domestic politics
• Comparative analysis of federalism and unitary states
• The role of interest groups in shaping policy outcomes
• The impact of constitutional design on political stability and democratic consolidation
• Comparative study of party systems in new democracies
• The relationship between corruption and economic development
• Comparative analysis of populist movements and parties
• The role of religion in shaping political behavior and attitudes
• The impact of demographic change on politics and policy
• Comparative study of authoritarian regimes and their stability
• The impact of regime change on economic development and political stability
• Comparative analysis of social movements and political change
• The role of identity politics in shaping political outcomes
• The impact of colonial legacies on contemporary politics
• Comparative study of labor relations in different societies
• The impact of environmental policy on political outcomes
• Comparative analysis of the role of the state in economic development
• The impact of trade agreements on domestic politics and policy
• Comparative study of regional integration and its effects on politics and policy
• The role of civil conflict in shaping political outcomes
• The impact of digital technologies on political communication and decision-making
• Comparative analysis of the relationship between democracy and development
• The impact of immigration on political attitudes and behavior
• Comparative study of the politics of welfare reform in different societies
• The role of international norms and values in shaping domestic politics and policy
• Comparative analysis of the politics of energy policy
• The impact of social media on political mobilization and participation
• Comparative study of political parties and their strategies for gaining and maintaining power
• The impact of globalization on income inequality and political conflict
• Comparative analysis of the politics of trade and protectionism
• The role of ethnic and linguistic diversity in shaping political outcomes
• Comparative study of the role of women in politics and policy-making
• The impact of digital surveillance on civil liberties and political participation
• Comparative analysis of the politics of climate change
• The role of education in shaping political attitudes and behavior
• Comparative study of the politics of healthcare reform in different societies.

Another key theme of comparative politics is the study of political culture and ideology. Political culture refers to the attitudes, values, and beliefs that shape political behavior and institutions, while ideology is a set of beliefs and principles that guide political action. Comparative analysis of political culture and ideology can reveal the sources of political conflict, the roots of political stability, and the factors that influence political change. For example, the comparison of the political cultures of liberal democracies and authoritarian regimes can help us understand the role of civic values and civil society in promoting democratic norms and practices.

A third important theme of comparative politics is the study of political economy, which explores the relationship between politics and economics. Comparative analysis of political economy can reveal the ways in which economic structures and processes influence political decision-making and outcomes, as well as the ways in which political institutions and actors shape economic development and growth. For example, the comparison of economic policies across different countries can provide insights into the conditions that promote or hinder economic growth, and the role of state intervention in economic affairs.

Finally, comparative politics also explores the dynamics of power and conflict within and between political systems. This theme encompasses the study of political parties, interest groups, social movements, and other political actors, as well as the causes and consequences of political violence and conflict. Comparative analysis of power and conflict can reveal the sources of political legitimacy, the strategies used by political actors to gain and maintain power, and the factors that contribute to political instability and violence. For example, the comparison of ethnic and religious conflict across different countries can help us understand the role of identity politics in shaping political outcomes.

In conclusion, comparative politics is a vital subfield of political science that helps us understand and explain the similarities and differences between political systems and their structures, processes, and actors. By examining political institutions, culture and ideology, political economy, and power and conflict, comparative politics sheds light on the conditions that promote or hinder effective governance, democratic participation, and economic growth, as well as the factors that contribute to political instability and conflict. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and complex, the study of comparative politics is more important than ever in helping us navigate the challenges and opportunities of the global political landscape.

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Topical Reviews

• Oxford Bibliographies: Political Science This link opens in a new window Hundreds of annotated guides to recent scholarship in topics across all subfields of political science and international relations.
• Oxford Research Encyclopedia: Politics Provides up-to-date, peer-reviewed surveys of major topics, theories, and research questions across all areas of political science.
• Oxford Research Encyclopedia: International Studies These peer-reviewed articles cover major topics, theories, and research questions across many subfields of international studies/international relations, like conflict, security, human rights, diplomacy, etc. This is the follow-up to the International Studies Association's International Studies Encyclopedia Online .
• Oxford Handbooks Online These handbooks provide a great source for authoritative reviews of research across political science, political theory, and related disciplines. Most of these we also have in print.
• Routledge Handbooks Online This link opens in a new window These handbooks provide overviews current research and future trends in the social sciences and humanities, with a strong collection in politics, particularly international relations and area studies.
• Annual Review of Political Science This link opens in a new window Comprehensive review of the literature in political science. Can help students identify major tends in the field as well as find general overviews of research in specific subject areas of politics.
• Elgar Research Handbooks Online Large collection of handbooks on topics across political science and public policy.

Political Theory Sources

• Cambridge Collections Online This link opens in a new window Searchable full text access to the complete Cambridge Companions to literature, philosophy, religion, and classics.
• Philosophy Compass This link opens in a new window Peer-reviewed survey articles on contemporary work in philosophy.
• Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy Authoritative source of full-text articles with current bibliographies on many topics of philosophy.
• Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy Provides full-text articles with current bibliographies on virtually every aspect of philosophy.
• Encyclopedia of Political Theory - Mark Bevir, ed. Thorough discussions of a diverse range of political theories and concepts.
• Past Masters This link opens in a new window Searchable full-text works in several languages from major philosophers and theologians.

Major Encyclopedias Covering the Whole Discipline

• SAGE Handbook of Political Science Published in 2020, this handbook provides a thorough overview of the discipline. Each of the 92 chapters gives a comprehensive overview of major topics within each subfield. Thematic sections include, Political Theory, Methods, Political Sociology, Comparative Politics, Public Policies and Administration, International Relations, and Major Challenges for Politics and Political Science in the 21st Century.
• International Encyclopedia of Political Science (2011) Covers all aspects of politics, from political theory and methodology to political sociology, comparative politics, public policies, and international relations.
• The Encyclopedia of Political Science Covers all areas of political science and provides medium-length entries with short bibliographies for further reading. Created under the direction of the American Political Science Association. Also in print at JA61 .E513 2011 (Trustee Reading Room Reference).
• International Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioral Sciences (2nd ed.) This link opens in a new window Covering 26 volumes in print, this major encyclopedia aims to capture the "state of the art" of the social and behavioral sciences, expanding its focus to include related biological fields, such as evolutionary science, genetics, cognitive neuroscience, psychiatry, and health. Topics include anthropology, archaeology, demography, economics, education, geography, history, law, linguistics, philosophy, political science, psychiatry, psychology, and sociology.
• CQ Researcher This link opens in a new window Offers reports and analysis on a variety of current policy issues. Includes background information, pro/con debates, and a chronology, plus resources for additional research.
• Facts On File Issues and Controversies This link opens in a new window Explore current issues and events with in-depth articles made to inspire thought-provoking debates. Topic pages feature the latest related news coverage from Reuters® as well as a variety of helpful background information, from the key pro/con arguments to chronologies of related events to primary documents. Updated weekly. 1995–present.
• World News Digest (Facts on File) This link opens in a new window Digest of major news stories around the world. 1940+

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206 Most Popular Political Science Research Topics

If you major in political science, you already know it’s a profound evaluation of politics and power from the domestic, international, and comparative outlook. It includes interpreting the existing political ideas, processes, institutions, behavior, policies, and how governments examine law, diplomacy, social groups, and many others. Political science is fundamentally a theory and practice of the government as it relates to both public and private lives. It encompasses political theory, comparative politics, international relations, the politics of the American government, and the preexisting political methodology. As students of a high school, college or university, it may be challenging to choose the best and interesting topics in political science. This is because you’re expected to produce high quality content on an advanced topic, and your grade depends on it. We’ve provided over 200 advanced topics to help you with that. But before you dive into these topics, how do you outline your political science research paper?

Outline Of Good Political Science Research Paper

Getting political research topics is easy; there are a lot. You must know how to convert any topic into a high quality paper, even if you order research paper, and this outline can help you. The outline of a good political science research paper must include an introduction, the literature review, the case study, the conclusion, and the reference page.

• Introduction. This is where you identify the research questions and tell your readers the question’s significance. You must also provide a brief answer and overview of what your paper or essay will be about.
• Literature Review or Theoretical Framework. Your political science research must discuss existing scholarly work related to your study. This lets your readers know that you conducted your research based on what you know about. This point is also where you provide explanations that justify the questions you asked earlier. Also, you can input your research methodology.
• Case Study or Main Points. This is where you provide evidence to capture your argument. You must have basic ideas which will run through chapters. Organizing your thoughts in chapters helps you structure them into smaller pieces that make sense in the end.
• Conclusion. This is the point where you summarize your research findings and restate the basic arguments or answers offered. You can also discuss the prospects of what you’ve discussed.

Now that you have an outline, these are the advanced and custom political science topics for your research or essays:

Political Science Research Questions

You must provide and answer some questions when you embark on research. These are good political science research questions to be answered in any political science research paper. Depending on your research, these questions are legitimate and should convince you about your knowledge on your chosen topic:

• What authority does a state have in the federal government?
• What can be identified as a totalitarian government today?
• Would it be justified if it’s said that Vladimir Putin is a dictator?
• What is the nature of comparative politics?
• How does communism affect today’s geopolitical structure?
• Does monarchy relate to communism too?
• How do social changes influence the politics of the country under consideration?
• How did politics influence the social class of the country under consideration?
• How does a dictator gain legitimacy?
• What exactly are political disputes?
• How is political dispute settled amongst countries?
• How are political disputes settled within a country?
• How does free speech sound much like hate speech
• What does controversy in politics imply?
• How does propaganda help during electioneering periods?

Political Science Topics

As earlier established, political science encompasses the relationship between domestic, national, international, and comparative politics. If you need good political science research topics, you can examine different sections of the States and other countries to develop your argument. You can consider the following comprehensive topics:

• How does existentialism apply to eastern constitutional law?
• What is the philosophy of Karl Schmidt and German?
• Examine civil republicanism and liberalism.
• Examine the post-socialist transition methods through the western culture lens.
• Evaluate the concept of Neoplatonism and how it poses a risk to society.
• What mutual tolerance in politics means.
• Evaluate the importance of ethics in the modern political culture.
• Justification of liberal democracy through the neo-Marxist lens.
• What are the ethics of election?
• Evaluate the core arguments of the Human Rights Act of 1998.
• Examine the basics of common morality and criminal law.
• Role of popular legislators in US history.
• Role of popular legislators in European history.
• Examine the role of popular presidents in US history.
• Outline the fundamental achievement of the first five US presidents.
• Outline the basics of justice inequality.
• Examine the importance of socio-economic preferences during political interrogation.
• Why is a person’s social life and history significant in the US penal system?
• What do post-conflict justice and inequality mean?
• Examine the efforts of the government at coordination.
• Give a thorough overview of the US electoral college.
• Give a comprehensive overview of the UK electoral college.
• Examine the importance of privacy law.
• Examine how privacy law seems to exploit commercial relationships.
• Evaluate the judicial interpretation of public safety statutes.
• What is the role of the transport security administrators?
• How are domestic laws formulated?
• Examine the role of public opinion on the abolition of slavery centuries ago.
• What is the role of public opinion in the US public health?
• What is the role of public opinion in the UK economic policies?

Comparative Politics Research Topics

This part of political science deals with an empirical approach to different political systems. It includes analysis of institutions, conflict resolutions, domestic policy formulation, international issues, and others. All these can be examined through a comparative evaluation, and you can consider:

• The domestic policies of the US and the UK on public health.
• The foreign policies of the UK and Russia.
• The comparison and contrasts between the communist structure of the USSR and China.
• Examine the Soviet Union ideology.
• The impacts of the cultural revolution on China.
• Evaluate the significance of the cultural revolution in the USSR.
• Examine the essential components of the UK and US foreign policies.
• Examine the cultural gap between China and Japan.
• Evaluate the behavioral approach to political parties in the UK and the US.
• Critically analyze the presidential and parliamentary systems of government.
• What is the apartheid phenomenon?
• How do apartheid and the black lives matter movement similar?
• What would you say is the difference between armed and political conflicts!
• What are your thoughts about twentieth and twenty-first-century politics?
• Religion is a social power: discuss.
• Culture is a formidable social power: discuss.
• Corruption is a must for any Government: discuss.
• Politics is business: discuss.
• Compare and Contrast the American and European federal crimes.
• Examine the activities of the FBI and KGB for ten years of your choice.

Political Science Research Paper Topics

As students of a college or university, political science borders on a state’s relationship amongst itself and outside it. This means its domestic and international political affairs. These extend to political theories, their practicality and feasibility, how they influence or affect the world, and many others. You can consider political science paper topics like:

• Vision of John Rohr on constitutions.
• Examine the significance of Plato’s The Republic.
• Evaluate the importance of Machiavelli’s The Prince
• Choose and talk about any three political philosophers of your choice.
• Give a detailed overview of the politics of Ancient Greece.
• Examine the politics of the Mongols.
• Examine the significance of the reign of the Vikings.
• Evaluate the unequal relationship between the government and the people
• Justify the lack of public opinion on foreign policies.
• Examine the effect of media voting on US elections.
• Evaluate the impact of card readers in protest of election credibility in the US.
• Evaluate the importance of foreign observers during elections from any country of your choice.
• Evaluate the basis of election thuggery based on the January invasion of the Capitol.
• Examine the effect of civilian and military government in the case of American provisional governments in the middle east.
• Assess the significance of the US on NATO.
• Give an overview of the influence of western nations on the UN.
• Examine the consolidation of democracy in any country of your choice.
• Problems of the American judiciary system.
• Challenges of the UK judiciary system.
• Evaluate the prospects of everyday politics in the European Union.
• Examine the role of Scandinavian countries in the race for gender equality.
• Examine the challenges and possibilities of gender equality in the UK.
• Evaluate the challenges and opportunities of equal pay in the US.
• Appraise the 2020 presidential election of the US.
• Examine the role of civic education in reducing educating the public.

Interesting Political Topics

Political science paper topics can also be interesting. This is because politics itself is exciting and can be intriguing when studied carefully. As students of politics, you must be knowledgeable on fundamental parts of the international system. You can base your research on these best political research paper topics.

• Examine the causes of the American Revolution
• Examine the concept of neoliberalism
• Evaluate the idea of political correctness
• Give an in-depth analysis of populism
• Attempt an evaluation of populism in the African context
• Evaluate the concept of politics in open Societies
• What principle is divided government based on
• What is the Influence of media on politics
• How does rational choice affect politics
• Is it okay to consider terrorism an instrument of politics?
• What does positivism imply?
• Examine the concepts of societal decadence in Animal Farm by George Orwell
• What does social movement on politics imply?
• Evaluate the basis of cultural pluralism
• Examine the role of the mass media in any UK election of your choice
• Examine the discussions on LGBTQ in sport
• Evaluate the domestic laws of Texas
• Why are some states more important than other states during US elections?
• What is the crisis of identity politics all about?
• Select any three states of your choice and discuss their domestic policies
• Choose any company of your choice and examine how its activities affect the public
• Make a case for vote-buying in any country’s election
• Examine the circumstance of political apathy in any country of your choice
• What are the challenges of marginalization in America?
• Evaluate the significance of corruption in the US politics

American Politics Research Paper Topics

America is a country that dominates global politics. It leads in technology, the military, even politics, and other fundamental sectors. However, this doesn’t excuse the US from a political crisis both internally and externally. You can discuss the basis of American policies with these current Research topics for political science:

• Examine the effects of the 2020 election on American democracy
• Examine the evolution of American politics from the 1960s
• What does American nationalism mean in the face of globalization
• What does social constructivism mean in the American context
• Examine public relations actors in the American politics
• What are the politics prevalent during the civil war
• What was the political crisis that led to the American civil war?
• Examine how the Republican culture evolved in the US
• Give an evaluation of election fraud on any US election
• Motivators of African American politicians
• Motivation for African American politics
• Examine the place of Hispanic American politics presently
• Examine the representative level of all minority classes in the US
• What does American crime law mean
• Examine the essential traits of the typical American politician
• How knowledgeable are you on the story of Jimmy Carter
• Examine the life of Saddam Hussein and his impact on America
• How did the Vietnam War become the American war?
• Attempt an analysis of the Barack Obama and Trump administration
• Discuss the significance of news coverage of US elections
• Analyze the relationship between the US and North Korea

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Easy Political Science Research Topics

If you’re in high school or pursuing your diploma, you need custom and more superficial political science topics. These may be advanced topics, but they are relatable political science topics for your level:

• Discuss the Importance of political violence in any country of your choice
• Examine the election processes and issues in any state of your choice
• Why does each state have different constitutions?
• Examine what tax law means in the US
• How should public bodies in the US act?
• What are the central laws to both federal and state governments?
• Examine the significance of public and private law in the US
• Examine the differences between democracy in the US and France
• The turbulent political history of France
• Evaluate the Importance of the US electoral college
• Examine the presence of godfatherism in any country of your choice
• Is Afghanistan better than it was before?
• Evaluate the political activities of the US in any country through its established provisional governments.
• Evaluate the role of domestic policies in rural areas
• What does legislation oversight mean?
• Give a detailed overview of the impeachment process of Trump
• Examine the structure of revenue allocation in the US
• Examine the art of political campaigns in the US
• How does social media bullying affect free speech
• Examine the line between free speech and hate speech
• How do elections achieve national peace and security
• Do you think the French President has too much power than he should?
• Do you think the US President should share his power with Congress?
• Examine the Executive power or the US vice president
• Examine the strengths of the UK Head of State

Current Research Topics For Political Science

These are topics that discuss the present happenings within countries and in the international political space. These could be topics on conflict resolutions or conflict in the international area itself. They also extend to domestic policies and their effects. Examine these good political science research questions:

• Examine the system of prosecuting top tier government officers
• Examine the legal clashes of any transnational corporations in recent years
• What does hostage care in the US penal code mean?
• Give a critical overview of American whistleblowers
• Examine the role of women in today’s global politics
• Is the terrorism war so far against the west or the western activities in the Middle East?
• What is the current political relationship of western countries with the Taliban government?
• What does political correctness mean in today’s gender multiplicity?
• Examine how social media emerges as the court cancel celebrities
• Examine the challenge of national planning under Joe Biden
• Evaluate the similarities between the foreign policies of Canada and the US
• What does the US alliance with Australia imply for its allies
• Examine the present threat between China and Taiwan
• Would you say the European Union can achieve standard fiscal policies
• What is the role of controversies and propaganda in any election, and how does it determine the winner or loser: give a case study

International Politics Research Paper Topics

International politics is the balance of power in the international space. This extends to the balance of threats. Other issues covered include human rights, peaceful resolution of global conflicts, environmental crisis, globalization, global ethics, global poverty, and more. The best political science research topics on international politics are:

• Examine the case for human rights violation in Malawi
• Make a case for human rights violation in China
• Make a car for the human rights violation in communist countries
• Examine the trends in global poverty and its eradication in the world today
• Investigate the controversies raised by Amnesty International
• Would you say international media houses are the watchdog of the society or an accomplice of security threats
• What are the ethics guiding the activities of NGOs
• Role of the international monetary fund in world politics
• Trends and evolution of the Belt and Road Initiative
• Examine the environmental crisis case against Germany
• Examine the issues of human rights in Uganda
• Investigate the political agenda of any three US politicians of your choice
• What are the present political powers at play in Ukrainian politics
• Examine the causes of the Central African Republic rebellion
• Examine the Afghanistan conflict through the lens of a Westerner
• Trace the origin of the Afghanistan conflict
• Analyze the immigrant crisis facing Europe
• Evaluate the immigrant problem facing the US
• Go in depth on the drug war by the US government
• Examine the disparity between the white and black justice systems in the US
• Evaluate the leadership conflict post 9/11
• Examine the race for economic dominance
• Examine the significance of capitalism in the expansion of democracy
• Examine the role of any three media houses of your choice in their propagation of bias in Europe and the US
• How does the Personal ambition of a leader affect country politics?
• Examine the post-war legacy of any war of your choice
• Examine the wartime negotiating strategy
• Evaluate the social role of volunteerism
• What is the Influence of the US government on the growth of Coca-cola outside America?
• How has the UN contributed to education in any country of your choice

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Political Science

Undergraduate sample research topics.

Students in the Department of Political Science at Western Michigan University will want to review these sample research topics when selecting their own research topic.

• A Cost-Benefit Analysis of the Office of Independent Counsel
• A Study on Equitable Water Provision in Latin America
• Affirmative Action: National Origin Minorities
• Aid to the Health-Related Sector: The United States, Japan, and Germany
• An Assessment of the Voting Rights Act of 1965
• An Evaluation of International Law as Applied to Genocide from Nuremberg to the Balkans
• Celebrity Influence on Political Campaigns
• Children Soldiers in Africa
• Development of a Constitutional Right of Privacy
• Educational Outcomes in Michigan: A Lack of Focus and Context
• Effectiveness of Rape Shield Laws
• Globalization and the Anti-Globalization Movement
• Legislative Redistricting in Illinois for 2002
• Mexico, Corporate Globalization and the Media
• Mexico's Changing Political Party System
• Nature Within the City: The Greenway Movement and the Transformation of Urban Form
• Pretextual Automobile Stops and the Fourth Amendment
• Public Education and Religious Establishment
• Racial Profiling in post 9/11 United States Content Regulation in Broadcasting
• Religious Exercise in Public Schools: Continuing Debate
• Rights and Their Progression from State to Federal Policy: The Case of the Disability Rights Movement
• Sexual Harassment: Comparative Legal Analysis
• Squatter Settlements in Post-Apartheid South Africa
• Stereotypes Between American and Arab-Americans in the United States
• Telecommunications Policy in China
• The "Political Question" Doctrine and Reapportionment
• The Austrian Freedom Party in 2000
• The Debt Crisis in Heavily Indebted Poor Countries
• The Effects of the North American Free Trade Agreement
• The Equal Rights Amendment: Why Controversy Ensured its Defeat
• The Evolution (and Devolution) of Affirmative Action Initiatives
• The 14th Amendment and Privacy
• The Influence of the Antislavery Movement, Republican Ideology, and Federalism on the 14th Amendment
• The Lemon Test and the Religious Establishment Clause
• The Patriot Act: Security/Rights Issues in Historical Perspective
• The Political Economy of the Micro-Island Nations of the Caribbean: The Impact of Tourism on Caribbean Culture, Environment and Society
• The Supreme Court and Reproductive Rights
• The Supreme Court and Sexual Preference
• Title IX and Collegiate Athletic Opportunities
• Truth Commissions and Civil Society
• U.S.-Japanese Trade Policy: A Defense of Limited Unilateralism
• Weapons of the Weak and the Chinese Occupation of Tibet
• Women and Equal Pay: An Assessment of Differences in Universities
• Women, Identity and Political Activism During the Allende Regime in Chile

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135 great political science research topics to write best paper.

We know, every high school, college or university student needs some good, interesting political science research topics. After all, your grade depends a lot on the quality of the topic you choose. Your professor expects you to submit a well researched and well written essay on a topic that piques his interest. Finding such a topic can be much more difficult than you imagine. The good news is that our writers and editors have created a list of unique political science research topics for students of all ages. Why don’t you take a look at our list of ideas and pick one right now?

Choosing the Best Political Science Topics Possible

If you are looking for the best and most interesting political science topics, you have arrived at the right place. Choosing the topics that can earn you top grades is now easier than ever. All you have to do is go through our list (you have 16 categories to choose from) and pick the topics you like. All our topics are unique at the time this list was created. And the good news is that we are updating this list frequently to make sure we can help as many students as possible with original ideas. Also, our topics can be used for free. You don’t have to pay for them or give us credit, so why don’t you pick one right now:

A Hot Political Topic

If you are looking for a hot political topic, you can find several of them right here. Take a look at our list and pick any one of our topics:

• Civil rights controversies in the United Kingdom
• Freedom of speech in the United States
• Talk about abortion and its political implications
• Social security issues in Australia
• Climate change and politics
• Discuss the death penalty in the US
• Censorship in China
• Social security issues in African countries
• Who should benefit from health insurance?
• Should we adopt an universal minimum income?

Political Science Research Questions

• Our creative writers though about some interesting political science research questions that you can answer in your next research paper:
• What is the state authority?
• What is a totalitarian government?
• Is Vladimir Putin a dictator?
• What are the benefits of a democratic government?
• Why do we study political science in school?
• What is comparative politics?
• How do social changes influence the politics in your country?
• What is communism?
• What are the negative effects of anarchism?
• Where does political power come from in the United States?
• Is a dictatorship the same as a monarchy?
• What makes a ruler a dictator?

Conflicts in Politics Ideas

Would you like to write an essay about conflicts in politics? We have some very interesting conflicts in politics ideas right here:

• What are political disputes?
• The best way to settle a political dispute
• An in-depth look at the Vietnam War
• How did the war in Afghanistan start?
• The conflict between Joe Biden and Donald Trump
• Propaganda techniques during political wars
• Free speech and hate speech in political conflicts
• Controversial aspects of a recent political conflict
• Conflicts between politics and religion
• Donald Trump versus Barack Obama

Easy Political Topics to Write About

We know you want to spend as little time as possible on your research paper . This is why we have compiled an original list of easy political topics to write about for you:

• What are the traits of a career politician?
• Discuss the concept of “political careerists”
• What makes Saddam Hussein a dictator?
• The story of Jimmy Carter
• The life and achievements of Barack Obama
• A Joe Biden biography
• How did Arnold Schwarzenegger become a politician?
• News coverage of elections in the UK
• Analyze the relations between the US and North Korea
• Compare and contrast liberalism and republicanism

International Relations Research Topics

Of course, we have some awesome topics related to international relations. Pick one of these international relations research topics and start working on your paper:

• Relations between North and South Korea
• An in-depth look at the Cold War period
• Russia-China relations in 2023
• China-US relations in 2023
• What caused the war in Afghanistan?
• The effects of nationalism in Germany
• Foreign policies of Eastern European countries towards Russia
• Discuss the rise in international terrorism
• Protecting the environment globally
• Analyze one of the many religious wars

American Government Research Paper Topics

We have some of the best and most interesting American government research paper topics right here. You’re free to use any one of them:

• What caused the American revolution?
• Politics during the Civil War
• Discuss Republican traditions in the US
• An in-depth look at election fraud in the United States
• Disaster response in the US
• What drives African American politicians?
• Analyze American federal crime law
• The US foreign policy in 2023
• Discuss the Cold War

Interesting Political Science Research Topics

We know you want to get the most interesting political science research topics possible. Here is the complete list of ideas:

• Discuss the constitutional vision of John Rohr
• Analyze The Republic written by Plato
• Research the politics in Ancient Rome
• An in-depth analysis of the politics of Ancient Greece
• Compare and contrast utilitarianism with egalitarianism
• Analyze Social Contract (written by Jean-Jacques Rousseau)
• Discuss the unequal relation between the public and the government

Public Law Topics

Interested in writing about public law? Of course, we have plenty of public law topics that you can use for your next essay:

• Analyze constitutional law in your country
• The peculiarities of administrative law in the United States
• Differences between procedural law and private law in the UK
• Tax law and criminal law versus private law
• Discuss the role of mandatory rules in public law
• Discuss the “public bodies act lawfully” principle of public law
• Do all central and local governments have to obey public law?
• What is the difference between public and private law in the US?

Comparative Politics Research Topics

We are certain your professor will surely appreciate any of our comparative politics research topics. Take a look at the list and pick the one you like the most:

• Talk about conflict and revolution in the United States
• Analyze 2 comparative parties in your country
• What are comparative political institutions?
• Define the concept of comparative politics
• Compare politics in the United States with politics in the United Kingdom
• Discuss direct and indirect binary comparisons
• Talk about the modernization theory

Good Political Topics

This is a list of good political topics that should work great in 2023:

• Analyze the national politics of a country of your choice
• Why are international relations important for political science?
• What gives legitimacy and authority in a democratic state?
• Discuss political participation in your country
• Compare and contrast political science with pure history
• Factors that influence political behavior in the United States

Political Theory Research Topics

Yes, we know that talking about political theory is not easy. However, we have some political theory research topics that are relatively easy to write about:

• An in-depth analysis of the Agrarianism political theory
• An in-depth analysis of the Egalitarianism theory
• Discuss the Phoenicianism political theory
• What is Libertarian socialism‎ and where can we find it?
• Research the topic of Zionism in 2023
• Compare and contrast socialism with communism in Eastern Europe
• Analyze 3 forms of government in use today

Current Research Topics in Political Science

Keeping up with the current events in politics may not be something you have time for. We do. Check out these current research topics in political science:

• Talk about the innovations in the public sector in the UK
• Analyze the 2019 Indian general elections
• The Israel-Hamas conflict in 2023
• Russia’s foreign policy towards Ukraine
• Discuss the rise of ISIS in Afghanistan
• Boko Haram’s expansion in Nigeria
• The American retreat from Afghanistan
• The US foreign policy towards China
• Analyze the India-China border dispute

Informative Political Science Research Paper Topics

Our writers have put together a list of highly interesting and informative political science research paper topics. Check them out below:

• Compare parliamentary and presidential democracy
• Discuss the apartheid in South Africa
• An in-depth look at the Vietnam War politics
• The effects of the Syrian conflict
• Imperialism in British Columbia
• Colonialism in African countries
• Discuss the Human Rights Act 1998 and its implications

Fresh Political Science Research Topic Ideas

Take a look at our fresh political science research topic ideas and choose the one that suits you best:

• Talk about the retreat of American troops from Afghanistan
• Talk about Joe Biden’s victory against Donald Trump
• Analyze a totalitarian government
• How did Vladimir Putin win 4 terms as president in Russia?
• The politics behind the Israeli-Palestinian war
• Discuss the role of mass media in political conflicts

Controversial Topics for a Political Science Research Paper

Why would you be afraid of talking about controversial topics? We have a list of easy controversial topics for a political science research paper right here for you:

• Discuss signs of election fraud in the United States
• Gender equality in politics
• The climate change problem across the world
• Politics and empty promises
• The use of influence in politics
• Are politicians above the law in the US?

Public Administration Topics

There are many things you can talk about when it comes to public administration. However, we feel that these public administration topics usually get high grades:

• Discuss public service motivation in the United States
• What is performance-related pay and how is it used?
• Civil service reform in the UK
• Analyze the public organizational behavior in your country
• Community service in your county
• Public administration and its link to social equity
• Sustainability projects in public administration
• Public administration: traits of a true leader
• Crisis management procedures in your area

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Affective polarization and dynamics of information spread in online networks

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Research in the Department of Political Science is organized around four subfields – American Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and International Relations. The Department also pursues, hosts and collaborates with a series of research initiatives. Additionally, Political Science faculty are affiliated with a number of research centers and programs at Johns Hopkins University .

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The department hosts an annual Graduate Summer School on Racial Politics .

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Across these events, political theory faculty and graduate students and a broader inter-subfield/inter-disciplinary group engage collegially with cutting-edge research and sustain critical conversations that enrich the subfield’s communal and intellectual life.  

The surprising economic upside to money in US politics

Money isn’t often seen as the great equalizer — especially when it comes to politics.

But in one of the first studies into the economic consequences of Citizens United vs. Federal Election Commission , in which the U.S. Supreme Court lifted most restrictions on campaign spending, Stanford's Greg Buchak casts doubt on the idea that money in politics is universally a zero-sum game.

Buchak , a faculty fellow at the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR), finds that the 2010 Citizens United decision boosted economic growth in the states whose campaign finance restrictions were deemed unconstitutional and that the gains from that boon mostly went to workers.

Not only did wages increase, but hiring and business incomes, especially among younger firms, also rose, according to the study.

Buchak and his coauthors estimate that, in the nearly two dozen states directly affected by the ruling, Citizens United increased wages and jobs by up to 3 percent in the first six years after the ruling. Buchak says this didn’t happen because unions, freed from political spending limits, became more influential.

Why it matters

Debates on campaign finance reforms at the federal and state level are ongoing. A better understanding of the economic impacts from the landmark case that untethered money in politics — which Greg Buchak’s research provides — can help inform policymakers.

Instead, the researchers find that Citizens United allowed more companies, especially those that were smaller and younger, to participate in the political process at the state level. This, in turn, diluted the power of established special interests, which had long relied on lobbying and personal ties to lawmakers to help sway policymaking. The court ruling also shook up state elections: Incumbent governors and state legislators lost their bids for re-election at higher rates, impacting Democrats and Republicans similarly.

The increased turnover shifted the focus of state policymaking, according to Buchak. Elected officials were more prone to adopt pro-growth laws and regulations, and avoid controversial social issues, to appeal to a broader voter base. The growth-focused agendas paid off as businesses expanded, lifting total output within states by 2 percent on average.

Buchak calls the study results “very surprising,” especially the finding that workers benefited directly from Citizens United — a result that challenges assumptions that big business and other deep-pocketed donors would gain the most from Citizens United .

“We thought, like everyone else did, that Citizens United would help businesses and that workers would be worse off in the end,” says Buchak, who is an associate professor of finance at Stanford Graduate School of Business. “As it turns out, both are better off.”

Biggest winners: New corporate donors

When Buchak and his coauthors — Pat Akey of the University of Toronto, Tania Babina of Columbia Business School, and Ana-Maria Tenekedjieva of The Federal Reserve Board — set out to study how politics impacts workers versus employers, they found an ideal experiment in the Citizens United case: 23 states had campaign spending limits that the Supreme Court invalidated on the grounds that political donations constitute free speech. The remaining 27 states did not have restrictions, so they were unaffected by the decision.

The real-life split allowed the researchers to compare the two groups of states and link the economic outcomes they find to Citizens United . The researchers collected data from nearly 20 sources, including the Internal Revenue Service and The Bureau of Economic Analysis. They also ruled out other potential reasons for the increases, including the economic recovery from the 2008-09 financial crisis and the surge in oil and natural gas production beginning around 2010 known as the “shale boom.”

The researchers conclude that the economic benefits they identify were the direct result of Citizens United , which enabled new types of donors to seek political influence and increased turnover in state government. As politicians sought to appeal to a broader donor base, they were more likely to adopt more centrist policies focused on economic growth.

“ Citizens United appears to have motivated politicians at the state level to avoid socially divisive issues like gay marriage and abortion and work together on economic policies that would at minimum deliver a small benefit to everybody,” Buchak says.

Among the biggest beneficiaries of these pro-growth policies, the researchers find, were companies that either weren’t around or weren’t active in politics when the Citizens United decision came down.

Jobs and wages grew the most, they show, at companies that were 5 years-old or less. Earnings for workers at these companies grew almost twice as fast as incomes among employees of similarly sized older businesses. And among large businesses that had no known political connections prior to the court ruling, wages for workers grew more than they did for employees at large companies with longstanding political ties.

“The turnover in state government that followed Citizens United appears to have led to laws and regulations that were most beneficial to companies that were no longer political outsiders,” Buchak says.

The Citizens United paradox

Even so, the study has a few important limitations. One is that the data analysis ends in 2016, when Donald Trump was elected president. The political landscape has changed significantly since, and it’s not just that polarization has deepened and campaign spending has skyrocketed. Companies, for example, are more likely to take a stance on social issues, like Google’s recent confrontation with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over the state’s so-called “Don’t Say Gay” law and the company’s special tax status.  

“A lot of issues in the 2024 election are very different today than from what they were when Trump was elected,” Buchak cautions. “Politicians and coordinated special interests are much more engaged in social issues, and we don’t yet know what the economic effects of that may be.”

Also, although the study finds that Citizens United boosted wages, hiring, and business incomes, that doesn’t mean that the pro-growth policies that enabled those benefits are necessarily beneficial in the long run.

There’s one more critical caveat, says Buchak: He and his coauthors aren’t saying that unlimited campaign donations — or even money in politics more broadly — are good for democracy just because, as their Citizens United analysis shows, they contributed to economic growth.

“If no money and no outside influence in politics are the best-case scenario in a democracy,” Buchak says, “ Citizens United took us from, say, 10th best to 9th best.”

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Partisan Politics and Annual Shareholder Meeting Formats

We study companies’ decisions about holding annual shareholder meetings on-line during the Covid pandemic, and returning to classical in-person meetings post-pandemic. Among S&P 1500 companies, the frequency of virtual meetings shot up from less than 10 percent to more than 80 percent in the first year of the pandemic, with only gradual reversion to in-person meetings since then. Partisan politics has significant associations with these decisions. In-person meetings are more likely for companies that have Republican CEOs, and for companies with headquarters located in jurisdictions that vote Republican. Corporate democracy therefore seems to have been swept up by the tides of contemporary political feuds.

The views expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Bureau of Economic Research.

No additional disclosures at this point.

MARC RIS BibTeΧ

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95% of Wisconsin Voters 50+ Are Committed to Voting in November

Kate Bridges, AARP Research

Wisconsin voters 50 and older are the most committed age group for voting in the 2024 election and appear to be on track to be deciders in the upcoming federal and state elections, according to new AARP research.

With key races in Wisconsin showing close numbers, candidates have an opportunity to win the support of these voters over the coming months by addressing their top issues.

While immigration and rising prices are top issues for voters in Wisconsin, between three- and four-fifths of voters 50-plus say Social Security and Medicare, policies that help people remain in their homes as they age, and prescription drug prices are all extremely or very important issues they will consider when deciding how to vote.

Moreover, Wisconsin voters 50-plus say they would be more likely to vote for candidates who commit to protecting Social Security and supporting family caregivers.

Methodology

AARP commissioned the bipartisan polling team of Fabrizio Ward (R) & Impact Research (D) to conduct a survey of voters in Wisconsin. The firms interviewed 1,052 likely voters, which includes a statewide representative sample of 600 likely voters, and an oversample of 452 likely voters age 50 and older. The survey was conducted between June 28-July 2, 2024. The interviews were held via live interviewer on landline (20%) and cellphone (35%), as well as SMS-to-web (46%). The sample was randomly drawn from the Wisconsin voter list.

For more information, please contact Kate Bridges at  [email protected] . For media inquiries, please contact External Relations at  [email protected] .

Suggested citation:

Bridges, Kate.  2024 Wisconsin Voter Survey.  Washington, DC: AARP Research, July 2024.  https://doi.org/10.26419/res.00813.019

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