research question examples politics

POSC 325: Political Analysis: Research Question Development

Research question development.

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Literature Review Assignment

Formulating a Research Question:

• Who:   think in terms of demographics (gender, age, ethnicity, religious preference, special interest groups, etc)
• What:   think about concepts/aspects, sociological and political factors, relevant hot-topic issues, statistics, etc.  
• Where:   compare/contrast a location
• Why/How/So What!:  consider the topic's significance in relation to the reviewed literature, and weigh advantages vs. disadvantages

Keep in mind that research questions can also evolve and change as you review the literature. 

Crafting Good Research Questions

• Draw on  background knowledge
• Begin from  empirical  questions. Good questions are usually about the outcomes (what explains y?) rather than about the causes (what effects does x have?)
• Utilize  "reporter questions"  to go beyond basic facts (who, what, when, where, why, how)
• Do not have a  single correct answer

Empirical Research

What Is Empirical Research? Empirical research applies observation and experience as the main modes of gathering data. Characteristics include:

• Content being based on actual and objective observation or experimentation
• Findings published in scholarly or academic journals
• Introduction, including literature review
• Methodology
• Presentation of the results
• Discussion and/or conclusion

Quantitative Research

What Is Quantitative Research? This type of research emphasize objective measurements and the statistical, mathematical, or numerical analysis of data collected through polls, questionnaires, and surveys, or by manipulating pre-existing statistical data using computational techniques. The ultimate goal is to determine the relationship between one thing [an independent variable] and another [a dependent variable] within a population. Characteristics include:

• Data usually gathered using structured research instruments
• Results based on larger sample sizes that are representative of the population
• Research study can usually be replicated or repeated, given its high reliability
• Researcher has a clearly defined research question to which objective answers are sought
• Data are in the form of numbers and statistics
• Project can be used to generalize concepts more widely, predict future results, or investigate causal relationships
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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+

Need statistical help?

Firestone Library's Data & Statistical Services section has 2 full-time consultants and a group of advanced graduate students who can help you! See the DSS website to make an appointment with one of the consultants or find the schedule for their virtual drop-in hours.

If you're in the social sciences, the Politics Department's Program for Quantitative and Analytical Political Science also provides a Consulting Service to advise on research design, statistics, formal theory, and computational questions arising from your research.

The library also provides numerous training workshops on R, Stata, visualization tools, and GIS software.

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Posing a Question

Asking a research question is our first step when we do social science. However, political scientists ask particular kinds of research questions, which may differ in specific ways from adjacent disciplines like history or economics. In political science, our research questions ask about some kind of political phenomenon. Our research questions may be descriptive or causal. When our research question is causal, we answer it with an empirically testable theory.

What is a Research Question?

Research questions in political science ask about some general political phenomenon. They often ask about a cause-and-effect relationship. For example, how do populist appeals shape the strength of democratic institutions? Why do some democratically-elected leaders carry out authoritarian actions? What role do political parties play in determining presidential nominees?

Descriptive Research Questions

These ask: what does the world look like? They describe a pattern, a sequence of events, how something behaves, a trend, etc.

For example: Do people vote? Have political parties become more polarized?

Causal Research Questions

These ask: why does the world look the way it does? They explain the cause of some phenomenon.

Causal research questions involve cause and effect , also known as independent and dependent variables.

For example: Why do people vote? How have political parties become more polarized?

Sometimes, causal research questions are framed in terms of the dependent variable - they ask about the “causes of effects.”

For example: Why do people vote? Why have political parties become more polarized?

Sometimes causal research questions are framed in terms of the independent variable - they ask about the “effects of causes.”

For example: What is the impact of polarization on political rhetoric? What is the consequence of eroded political norms?

Research questions in published political science:

Why do people in different parts of the world, in neighboring countries, and even within the same nation, experience such dramatic divergences in their levels of [socio-economic] well-being?

-Singh, How Solidarity Works for Welfare (2015), p. 1

Show me another!

Test yourself!

For each research question below, classify it as descriptive or causal. if it is a descriptive research question, try re-writing it as a casual question. if it is causal, try re-writing it as descriptive., question 1:.

Do voters in country X choose candidates on the basis of their policy platforms?

Question 2:

How have revolutionary leaders understood the role of democracy and rule of law?

Question 3:

Why do some provinces in country X have much higher levels of economic inequality than others?

Research Questions as Puzzles

In political science, it can be useful to think of a causal research question as a “puzzle” that our theory attempts to solve. Framed in this way, political science puzzles tend to come in two flavors:

Flavor 1: Variation that we cannot explain

Our outcome, our effect, or our dependent variable looks different in different places or at different times, and we want to explain why.

For example:

Why do we see ethnically-based parties in some countries but not others?

Why was voter participation in country X high during one election, but not another?

Why are some democracies strong and stable while others flirt with authoritarian backsliding?

Flavor 2: Violation of a conventional wisdom

We expect to see some phenomenon in the world based on existing research or based on our intuitions, but in fact we see the opposite. We want to explain why.

If wealthy countries are more likely to democratize, then how has economically growing China remained authoritarian?

If ethnic conflict tends to occur in places with higher ethnic diversity, then why has Northern Ireland, despite a history of intense sectarian conflict, remained peaceful over the past 25 years?

Puzzles motivate our theories by giving us something to solve. They are based on what we observe descriptively in the world. The puzzles above motivate our theories based on qualitative observation, but we can also use data or visualizations to communicate political science puzzles.

Americans were much less polarized in 1994 than in 2004. What explains this change over time?

source: Pew Research Center

In some countries, citizens are much more likely to perceive their government as corrupt than in others. What explains this variation over space?

source: Transparency International

How do I answer research questions and puzzles?

The answer to our research question is our argument, or what we often call our theory . Click here to learn more about how to write theories, or arguments, that answer research questions.

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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.

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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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Developing a research question (northern kentucky university), developing a research question (indiana university).

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A research question is a statement that defines what is to be studied. It is the core of the research project, study, or literature review. Your research question  focuses the study, determines the methodology, and guides all stages of inquiry, analysis, and reporting.

Your research question should...

• Be focused 
• Identify the problem you're writing about
• Establish significance 

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Political Research: Methods and Practical Skills (3rd edn)

• Guided Tour of the Online Resources
• 1. Political Research
• 2. Forms of Knowledge: Laws, Explanation, and Interpretation in the Study of the Social World
• 3. Objectivity and Values
• 4. Asking Questions: How to Find and Formulate Research Questions
• 5. Finding Answers: Theories and How to Apply Them
• 6. Research Design
• 7. What is Data?
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• 14. Textual Analysis*
• 15. Quantitative Analysis: Description and Inference
• 16. Patterns of Association: Bivariate Analysis
• 17. A Guide to Multivariate Analysis
• Finding and Citing Sources for Political Research

p. 93 4. Asking Questions: How to Find and Formulate Research Questions

• Sandra Halperin Sandra Halperin Professor of International Relations, Royal Holloway, University of London
•  and  Oliver Heath Oliver Heath Professor of Politics, Royal Holloway, University of London
• https://doi.org/10.1093/hepl/9780198820628.003.0004
• Published in print: 17 April 2020
• Published online: August 2020

This chapter deals with the first step of the research process: the formulation of a well-crafted research question. It explains why political research should begin with a research question and how a research question structures the research process. It discusses the difference between a topic or general question, on the one hand, and a focused research question, on the other. It also considers the question of where to find and how to formulate research questions, the various types of questions scholars ask, and the role of the ‘literature review’ as a source and rationale for research questions. Finally, it describes a tool called the ‘research vase’ that provides a visualization of the research process, along with different types of questions: descriptive, explanatory, predictive, prescriptive, and normative.

• research process
• research question
• political research
• literature review
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• explanatory question
• predictive question
• prescriptive question
• normative question

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Planning for research, formulate a research question using context, credo reference, encyclopedias, idea to research question to thesis.

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Most students decide on their topic first then try to find out if there has been anything written on the subject. WRONG ! It is necessary to do some planning and preliminary research before deciding! 

The table above illustrates how a research question develops from a broad topic to a focused research question . A concept map should help you identify a sub-topic and possible issues or problems .

Use the resources shared in this guide as well as preliminary research to explore your topic further. Preliminary research will provide some context to help you consider a possible research question.

CREDO Reference is like having a library's reference section in one website. The database contains full-text subject encyclopedias, reference works, dictionaries, and handbooks in all disciplines. Visit the page and search for the main topic you are interested in to get definitions, background information, and pro/con positions.

Some example sources are below:

• Global Poverty  (The Princeton Encyclopedia of the World Economy)
• Kyoto Protocol (Culture Wars in America: An Encyclopedia of Issues, Viewpoints, and Voices)
• Urbanization (The Dictionary of Human Geography)

To find subject dictionaries relevant to your issue, country, or geographic region, search  GALILEO   or the catalog and add "AND encyclopedia" to your search. (e.g. "Global Economy AND encyclopedia")

1. Start with a general subject you think you want to explore

Example: Lone wolf terrorism, electronic surveillance, social media use in emergencies, unmanned systems, suicide bombers. These look more like headings in an Encyclopedia than topics for a paper.

2. Look for particular aspects of the general subject you might want to explore further.

• Look at the texts assigned in class or ones you have used for other classes.
• Read some background sources. You may not use these sources as evidence in your paper, but they can help you find and narrow a topic.
• Look at one or two basic books on the subject. Scan the Table of Contents; Index. Browse the Chapters.

3. Once you have picked an aspect, develop some research questions about the aspect you have selected. You will probably need to find some pre-research and find books or chapters in books on the particular aspect you have selected.

• Avoid questions that can be answered by a simple description
• Avoid yes/no questions
• Avoid questions that are too broad
• Avoid questions like What would have happened if…

4 . Now you may be ready to develop your thesis and start your real research. A research paper is not just a collection of facts or bits of information. It usually takes the form of an argument in support of a thesis. 

• A thesis is not a description of your paper, though it should be clear from your thesis what your paper is about. Example. This paper is about the use of non-violent tactics used to protest the War in Vietnam. This is a description . not a thesis 
• A thesis is not a question, though it comes from a question that a researcher asked. Example: Were non-violent tactics successful in bringing an early end to the war in Viet Nam? This is a question not a thesis
• A thesis is not a statement of fact Example: Many college students were involved in non-violent protests against the war in Viet Nam. - this is a statement not a thesis.
• A thesis is not a statement of personal opinion. Though it should reflect what you have concluded, a thesis is not a mere statement of your own personal beliefs or prejudices.

A thesis is a specific, possible, debatable answer to a question that can be supported by evidence. It makes an assertion that sets up an argument. It is then the writer’s job to supply evidence to prove their point in the rest of the paper.

Example of a Thesis:   The Vietnam War protest movement was more about white, middle-class young men being drafted and then sent into war than it was about stopping an unjust war.

Example of a Thesis:  Although the timber wolf is actually a timid and gentle animal, it is being systematically exterminated because people wrongfully believe it to be a fierce and cold-blooded killer.

Hint:   Use a formula to develop a working thesis statement (which you will need to revise later). Here are a few examples:

• Although  ______ have argued that ______, closer examination shows that ______.
• ______ uses ______ and ______ to prove that ______.
• Phenomenon X is a result of the combination of ______, ______, and ______.
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Vernon Yian

February 19th, 2021, gv249: how to identify a research question.

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Mashal Ijaz, BSc. Politics and International Relations ’21

Why conduct political science research?

It is important to start by asking the fundamental: why conduct political science research? If your passion is quantitative political science research, that may not be a very important question. However, it is always worthwhile to put in perspective the rationale behind wanting to conduct ‘good’ political science research and, more importantly, what makes political science research ‘good’. The most obvious reason to learn how to conduct political science research is so that you know what to look for in the works of other researchers. This means you will be able to pick apart, dissect and analyse for yourself whether studies hold up to scrutiny once you apply your research knowledge. Obviously, this can be helpful in course readings for other modules, but it can also be very useful when others try to convince you of a specific viewpoint using research. You will know exactly what to look for when trying to gauge the quality of their research.

Identifying a question

According to Popper (1968), “there is no such thing as a logical method of having new ideas”. That is, if you are trying to develop a research question, there is no step-by-step process to follow which will result in inspiration for a great idea. However, instead of waiting for inspiration to strike randomly, we can begin by reading the literature around a specific topic we might be interested in. In so doing, we attempt to locate the gap or hole in the literature that we can then try to fill by conducting research. This ‘gap’ need not be a revolutionary idea which changes the field. It can be an identification of a new outcome variable for a specific phenomenon, or even simply a new conceptualisation, description or measurement of it. It could also be a new explanatory variable which has an effect on a known outcome. It can be a new moderator or mediator i.e. you find that there may be a different mechanism through which the explanatory variable affects the outcome variable (these will be discussed in more detail in future articles). Another approach could be transporting a study conducted in a specific region to a different area with the logic being that it will bring to light some new insight about a specific phenomenon.

Research questions can be descriptive – they ask ‘what’ questions, such as exploring the particular features of a political institution, idea etc. Research questions can also be causal. These are, arguably, the more interesting ones but also more difficult to conduct. They involve analysing the effect or mechanism behind two variables – the ‘why’ questions. When asking causal questions, it is usually best to avoid trying to find all the reasons behind a specific phenomenon. For example, if you ask, “Why did Clinton lose the 2016 election”, this will inevitably cause you some trouble since it is seemingly impossible to try and identify and measure all the explanatory variables for a specific outcome. Instead, we can ask “What was the effect of misogynistic remarks on political candidates in the 2016 US general election?” In this way, we are identifying and separating a specific explanatory variable and trying to measure its effect on the outcome.

These are a few helpful ways of thinking about how to begin formulating your own research question. However, at the end of the day, as Geddes (2003) points out, you need to have a certain level of genuine curiosity about the political and social world.

From theory to operationalism

Political science is not just about the facts. Since the political world is constantly changing, we need to understand how we move from causal theories to scientific knowledge. Political scientists develop and test theories; once developed, we can restate them into testable hypotheses. As we move from causal theory to hypothesis, we move from general statements about how we think the world works to a more specific statement about the expected relationship in the real world. Therefore, the next logical step after we have identified a political science question is to conceptualise and operationalise our variables. A great way to understand this is using Sartori’s (1970) ladder of abstraction. This framework attempts to understand concept formation through a logic of appropriate comparison. A concept is made less abstract and more specific when we add qualifications. For example, ‘political ideology’ is a ‘high level’ category which is more concretely conceptualised as an example of a political ideology, such as ‘nationalism’. This can be made more specific by the addition of attributes, for example, ‘alt-right white nationalism’. In this way, we can conceptualise broad theoretical concepts into more concrete variables which we might have a way of measuring. Therefore, a question such as “what is the effect of the internet on politics” is not a ‘good’ research question because of the abstract concepts involved. It is better to conceptualise ‘internet’ and ‘politics’ and try to be more specific in the hopes that we can measure these variables.

Key definitions:

• Variable: an entity that takes on different values (not a constant)
• Outcome variable, Y: (dependent) variable that you are trying to measure
• Explanatory variable, X: (independent) variable that is being manipulated to observe the effect on the outcome variable
• Mechanism: a causal explanation for a relationship
• Operationalisation: means by which a concept can be verified and measured.
• Inductive reasoning: deriving theories from observing empirical reality
• Deductive reasoning: develop theories and test them against empirical reality
• Positivism: there are objective facts that are observable and verifiable in the same way by different individuals
• Constructivism: facts are socially embedded and constructed. Reality is subjective, and we cannot claim to objectively observe reality.
• Normative: asks what ought to happen and why
• Empirical: asks what happened, happens or will happen, and why

Image credit: Runner Up – 2007 Science Idol Cartoon Contest. Springer Creative. https://www.springercreative.com/?cartoon=44&search=men

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Political Science Research Questions : Uncovering insightful and relevant inquiries

• political science

Political science research questions seek to analyze political phenomena and institutions in society. This involves examining power structures, public policies, and government behavior to understand and explain political processes.

Political science research questions cover a wide range of topics, including comparative politics, international relations, and public administration. Researchers explore questions related to governance, political ideologies, and the impact of political decisions on society. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for informing public policy, promoting democratic participation, and enhancing the functioning of political systems.

By delving into these questions, scholars contribute to deeper insights, informed debates, and evidence-based decision-making in the political arena. This research also helps to advance our understanding of the complexities and nuances inherent in political phenomena, offering valuable perspectives for addressing societal challenges.

Credit: www.reuters.com

Understanding The Importance

When delving into the realm of political science research, understanding the importance of research questions is crucial for unlocking insightful discoveries. Research questions serve as the backbone of any empirical study, shaping the direction of the investigation and guiding the researcher towards valuable insights. By establishing clear and focused research questions, political scientists can effectively navigate the complexity of political phenomena, contributing to the advancement of knowledge within the field.

Significance Of Research Questions In Political Science

Research questions play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of political science research. This is primarily because clearly formulated research questions act as a guidepost for researchers, ensuring that their inquiries are precise and targeted . By honing in on specific aspects of political phenomena, researchers can avoid ambiguity and obtain focused insights that contribute meaningfully to the expansion of political science knowledge .

Establishing The Link Between Research Questions And Insightful Discoveries

The link between research questions and insightful discoveries lies in the focus and specificity of the inquiries. When research questions are carefully crafted , they serve as critical tools for delving deep into the intricacies of political phenomena. In doing so, researchers can uncover nuanced patterns, relationships, and causality that underlie the complex landscape of politics. Through this process, the insightful discoveries stemming from well-formulated research questions bolster the evidence base of political science, enriching the discipline with robust and meaningful findings .

Formulating Effective Research Questions

Research questions are crucial in guiding the process of political science studies. Formulating effective research questions ensures that the research is focused, relevant, and impactful. By asking the right questions, political scientists can delve into complex societal issues and contribute to a deeper understanding of political dynamics.

Attributes Of Effective Political Science Research Questions

• Specific and Focused: Effective research questions are specific and focused on a particular aspect of political science . They avoid being too broad or vague, allowing for in-depth analysis.
• Clear and Concise: Research questions should be articulated in a clear and concise manner to ensure understanding and avoid ambiguity.
• Empirical and Testable: Political science research questions should be framed in a way that allows for empirical investigation and testing, enabling the collection of concrete data and evidence.
• Relevance to Political Context: Questions must be relevant to the current political landscape, addressing issues that have practical and real-world significance.

Utilizing Contextual Relevance To Frame Research Questions

Crafting research questions that are contextually relevant involves understanding the societal, historical, and cultural context in which the political phenomena under investigation occur. By aligning research questions with the relevant political context , scholars can ensure that their inquiries address actual challenges and developments, leading to insightful and applicable findings.

Types Of Political Science Research Questions

In political science research, various types of research questions are explored to analyze and understand various aspects of political behavior, institutions, and processes. Each type of research question serves a specific purpose and contributes to the depth of knowledge within the field. Understanding the different types of political science research questions is crucial for developing effective research methodologies and addressing complex political phenomena.

Descriptive Research Questions In Political Science

Descriptive research questions in political science focus on identifying and describing the characteristics, patterns, and behaviors within political systems. These questions seek to provide a comprehensive overview of a particular political phenomenon or event, often using qualitative or quantitative methods to analyze and present the data. Examples of descriptive research questions include:

• What are the voting patterns among different demographic groups within a specific constituency?
• How has public opinion on immigration policies evolved over the past decade?

Explanatory Research Questions In Political Science

Explanatory research questions aim to uncover the reasons or causes behind political phenomena or events. These questions delve deeper into understanding the relationships between different variables, exploring underlying mechanisms, and explaining the factors that influence political outcomes. Explanatory research questions often involve hypothesis testing and statistical analysis. Examples of explanatory research questions include:

• What are the factors that contribute to the rise of populist movements in democratic societies?
• How does the distribution of power within a political system impact policy decision-making?

Predictive Research Questions In Political Science

Predictive research questions in political science seek to anticipate future political developments or outcomes based on current trends, patterns, and dynamics. These questions utilize historical data, forecasting models, and scenario analysis to project potential political scenarios and their likely consequences. Examples of predictive research questions include:

• What are the potential implications of a trade war between major global economies on international relations?
• How might demographic shifts influence the electoral landscape in the upcoming national elections?

Examples Of Insightful Political Science Research Questions

Exploring the impact of globalization on political stability.

Globalization has significantly transformed the dynamics of international relations, potentially influencing political stability in various regions. A research question could be:

• How has globalization contributed to the rise of transnational political movements?
• What are the implications of economic interdependence on state sovereignty and political stability?
• How does the flow of information and cultural exchange due to globalization impact political stability in different societies?

Analyzing The Role Of Social Media In Shaping Political Discourse

Social media platforms have become integral to political communication and public opinion formation. Researchers can investigate the following questions:

• What is the influence of social media on the formation and dissemination of political narratives?
• How does social media contribute to polarization or consensus-building in political discourse?
• What role does social media play in amplifying or attenuating the impact of misinformation and propaganda in political campaigns?

Best Practices For Uncovering Relevant Inquiries

When conducting political science research, formulating relevant and impactful research questions is crucial for success. Understanding the best practices for uncovering relevant inquiries is essential for yielding meaningful insights and driving the field forward. Below, we explore key strategies for shaping research questions in political science.

Leveraging Interdisciplinary Perspectives In Shaping Research Questions

One of the best practices for uncovering relevant inquiries in political science research is to leverage interdisciplinary perspectives when formulating research questions. Political science is a complex field that intersects with various disciplines, including sociology, economics, history, and law. By integrating insights from these diverse fields, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of political dynamics and societal structures.

Incorporating Ethical Considerations In Political Science Research Question Formulation

Another essential aspect of shaping research questions in political science is the incorporation of ethical considerations into the question formulation process. Political science research often delves into sensitive topics related to governance, power, and social justice. Thus, it is imperative for researchers to carefully consider the ethical implications of their inquiries, ensuring that their work adheres to ethical standards and respects the dignity and rights of individuals and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions Of Political Science Research Questions

What are some popular political science research questions.

Political science research questions often focus on topics like political behavior, governance, comparative politics, and international relations. Some popular questions include: “How do political institutions influence citizens’ behavior? ” And “What factors contribute to the stability of political systems? “

How Can I Develop A Unique Political Science Research Question?

To develop a unique political science research question, consider current events, gaps in existing literature, and areas of personal interest. Addressing underexplored topics or frameworks can lead to innovative research questions that contribute to the field’s knowledge base.

Why Is It Important To Refine Political Science Research Questions?

Refining research questions in political science is crucial as it helps focus the study, enhances clarity, and guides the research process. Well-defined questions enable researchers to effectively gather and analyze data, leading to more precise and impactful findings.

The political science research questions discussed highlight the significance of understanding and analyzing the complexities of modern political systems. By delving into these inquiries, researchers can develop valuable insights that contribute to our understanding of politics and its impact on society.

These questions serve as a foundation for future research and enriching our knowledge of the political landscape.

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Psci 3160 mass media in american politics.

• Introduction
• How to Find Media
• Writing a Research Question
• How to Find Books
• How to Find Articles & Transcripts
• Public Opinion Polling Resources

If you select "no," please send me an email so I can improve this guide.

How Do I Create a Research Question?

Phrasing your topic as a research question.

Are you looking for answers? Your research becomes much easier when you know the question.

Start by writing out your topic as a question.You often have to write out your question many times from different perspectives before you can settle on what it is you want to research. Having trouble forming your topic into a question? Fill in the blanks of the following sentence to help you discover your question:

A) I am studying …_____________________________________________________________________________________________

(B) in order to find out … ________________________________________________________________________________________

(C) in order to help my reader understand … ________________________________________________________________________

Then Combine ABC to create a Question (D) (D) Research Question: … _______________________________________________________________________________________

Adapted from:  HOW DO I CREATE RESE ARCH QUESTIONS?

Select your Variables:

Once you have your question, you can pull out your Independent and Dependent variables.

Independent Variable X=  Smoking ban

Dependent Variable Y=  Smoking cessation 

What are Independent and Dependent Variables?

Independent Variable is a variable (often denoted by  x  ) whose variation does not depend on that of another.

Dependent Variable a  is variable (often denoted by  y  ) whose value depends on that of another.

If you are given a dataset to work other in your class, you can also  choose your variables before developing your question.

(A) I am studying... (state what your broad topic is) EXAMPLE : House of Cards season 4, national political conventions and public opinion

(B) in order to find out... (use standard journalistic questions: who, what, where, when, but focus on why and how) EXAMPLE: what is the public perception regarding what happens at national political conventions behind the scenes

(C) in order to help my reader understand... (motivate your question, why does your reader need to know this) EXAMPLE: public opinion of decisions made at national political conventions

(D) Research Question: (use the ideas in A-C to form a research question) EXAMPLE: Do American voters have a negative opinion of what occurs at national political conventions?

The Research Question

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Political Science Research Paper Topics

800 Political Science Research Paper Topics

Political science is a dynamic field that offers a multitude of avenues for exploration and inquiry. Whether you are passionate about the intricacies of American politics, fascinated by global affairs, or interested in the intersection of politics with social issues, there’s a wealth of research opportunities awaiting you. This comprehensive list of political science research paper topics has been meticulously curated to help students like you find inspiration and direction for your academic endeavors. Spanning various categories, these topics encompass both foundational principles and contemporary issues, ensuring a diverse range of subjects for your research. As you navigate this extensive collection, let your intellectual curiosity guide you towards a research topic that resonates with your interests and academic goals.

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African Politics

• The Role of Youth Movements in African Politics
• Assessing the Impact of Neocolonialism on African Nations
• Conflict Resolution Strategies in African States
• Corruption and Governance Challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Women’s Participation in African Political Leadership
• Comparative Analysis of Post-Colonial African Constitutions
• Environmental Policies and Sustainability in African Governments
• The African Union’s Role in Regional Stability
• Ethnic Conflict and Politics in East Africa
• Human Rights Violations and Accountability in African Nations
• The Influence of International Aid on African Politics
• Media Censorship and Press Freedom in African Nations
• Ethnicity and Identity Politics in West Africa
• Healthcare Access and Quality in African Countries
• Indigenous Governance and Rights in African Societies
• Political Economy and Resource Allocation in Oil-Producing Nations
• The Impact of Globalization on African Economies
• The Legacy of Apartheid in South African Politics
• The African Diaspora’s Influence on Homeland Politics
• Environmental Conservation and Natural Resource Management in Africa

American Politics

• The Role of Third Parties in American Elections
• Analyzing the Influence of Lobbying on U.S. Policy
• The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns
• Immigration Policies and the American Dream
• Gerrymandering and Its Effects on Electoral Outcomes
• The Role of the Electoral College in Presidential Elections
• Gun Control and Second Amendment Debates
• Healthcare Policy and Access in the United States
• Partisanship and Polarization in American Politics
• The History and Future of American Democracy
• Supreme Court Decisions and Their Political Implications
• Environmental Policies and Climate Change in the U.S.
• Media Bias and Political Discourse in America
• Political Conventions and Their Significance
• The Role of Super PACs in Campaign Financing
• Civil Rights Movements and Their Impact on U.S. Politics
• Trade Policy and Global Economic Relations
• National Security and Counterterrorism Strategies
• Populism and Its Influence on American Politics
• Electoral Reform and Voting Rights in the United States

Asian Politics

• China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Global Politics
• Democracy Movements in Hong Kong and Taiwan
• India’s Foreign Policy and Regional Influence
• The North Korea Nuclear Crisis
• Environmental Challenges in Southeast Asian Nations
• Ethnic Conflict and Identity Politics in South Asia
• Economic Growth and Inequality in East Asian Countries
• ASEAN’s Role in Regional Security
• Japan’s Approach to Pacifism and Defense
• Cybersecurity and Cyber Warfare in Asia
• Religious Extremism and Political Stability in the Middle East
• China-India Border Dispute and Geopolitical Implications
• South China Sea Disputes and Maritime Politics
• The Rohingya Crisis and Humanitarian Interventions
• Political Reform and Authoritarianism in Central Asia
• Technological Advancements and Political Change in Asia
• The Belt and Road Initiative and Its Impact on Asian Economies
• Environmental Conservation Efforts in Asian Nations
• Geopolitical Rivalries in the Indo-Pacific Region
• Media Censorship and Freedom of Expression in Asia
• Comparative Politics
• Comparative Analysis of Political Regimes: Democracies vs. Authoritarian States
• Theories of State Formation and Governance
• Electoral Systems Around the World
• Social Welfare Policies in Western and Non-Western Societies
• The Role of Civil Society in Political Change
• Political Parties and Their Impact on Governance
• Analyzing Political Culture in Diverse Societies
• Case Studies in Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding
• Federal vs. Unitary Systems of Government
• Gender and Political Representation Across Countries
• Immigration Policies and Integration Strategies
• Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination Movements
• Environmental Policies and Sustainability Practices
• Populist Movements in Contemporary Politics
• The Impact of Globalization on National Identities
• Human Rights Violations and Accountability Mechanisms
• Comparative Analysis of Welfare States
• Ethnic Conflict and Power Sharing Agreements
• Religious Diversity and Its Political Implications
• Social Movements and Political Change Across Regions
• Constitutions and Constitutionalism
• The Evolution of Constitutional Law: Historical Perspectives
• Judicial Review and Constitutional Interpretation
• Federalism and State Powers in Constitutional Design
• Comparative Analysis of National Constitutions
• Human Rights Provisions in Modern Constitutions
• Constitutional Amendments and Reform Efforts
• Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances
• Constitutional Design in Post-Conflict Societies
• Constitutionalism and Indigenous Rights
• Challenges to Constitutional Democracy in the 21st Century
• Constitutions and Cultural Pluralism
• Environmental Provisions in Constitutions
• The Role of Constitutional Courts in Political Systems
• Social and Economic Rights in Constitutions
• Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law
• The Impact of Technological Advancements on Constitutional Governance
• Constitutional Protections for Minority Rights
• Constitutional Referendums and Public Participation
• Constitutional Provisions for Emergency Powers
• Gender Equality Clauses in National Constitutions
• Democracy and Democratization
• The Role of Civil Society in Democratization
• Democratic Backsliding: Causes and Consequences
• Comparative Analysis of Electoral Systems and Democracy
• The Impact of Media on Political Awareness and Democracy
• Political Parties and Their Role in Democratic Governance
• Women’s Political Participation and Representation in Democracies
• Democratic Transitions in Post-Authoritarian States
• Youth Movements and Their Influence on Democratization
• Populism and Its Effect on Democratic Norms
• Comparative Analysis of Direct vs. Representative Democracy
• Democratization and Economic Development
• Indigenous Peoples’ Rights and Democratization
• The Role of International Organizations in Promoting Democracy
• Religious Diversity and Democracy in Multiethnic Societies
• The Challenges of Democratic Consolidation
• Media Freedom and Democratization in the Digital Age
• Human Rights and Democratic Governance
• Democratization and Conflict Resolution in Divided Societies
• Civil-Military Relations in Emerging Democracies
• Assessing the Quality of Democracy in Different Countries

Political Corruption

• The Impact of Corruption on Political Stability
• Corruption and Economic Development: A Comparative Analysis
• Anti-Corruption Measures and Their Effectiveness
• Corruption in Public Procurement and Government Contracts
• Political Scandals and Their Influence on Public Opinion
• The Role of Whistleblowers in Exposing Political Corruption
• Corruption and Its Impact on Foreign Aid and Investments
• Political Patronage and Nepotism in Government
• Transparency and Accountability Mechanisms
• Corruption and Environmental Exploitation
• Cultural Factors and Perceptions of Corruption
• Corruption in Law Enforcement and the Judiciary
• The Role of Media in Investigating Political Corruption
• Corruption and Political Party Financing
• Comparative Analysis of Corruption Levels in Different Countries
• Ethnicity and Corruption: Case Studies
• Political Corruption in Post-Conflict Societies
• Gender, Power, and Corruption
• Corruption and Human Rights Violations
• Strategies for Combating Political Corruption

European Politics

• The European Union’s Role in Global Governance
• Brexit and Its Implications for European Politics
• European Integration and Supranationalism
• Euroscepticism and Anti-EU Movements
• Immigration and European Identity
• Populist Parties in European Elections
• Environmental Policies in European Countries
• The Eurozone Crisis and Economic Governance
• EU Enlargement and Eastern European Politics
• Human Rights and European Integration
• Nationalism and Secession Movements in Europe
• Security Challenges in the Baltic States
• EU-US Relations and Transatlantic Cooperation
• Energy Policies and Dependency on Russian Gas
• The Common Agricultural Policy and Farming in Europe
• European Social Welfare Models and Inequality
• The Schengen Agreement and Border Control
• The Rise of Far-Right Movements in Western Europe
• EU Environmental Regulations and Sustainability
• The Role of the European Court of Justice in Shaping European Politics
• Comparative Analysis of Federal Systems
• Fiscal Federalism and Taxation in Federal States
• Federalism and Ethnic Conflict Resolution
• The Role of Governors in Federal Systems
• Intergovernmental Relations in Federal Countries
• Federalism and Healthcare Policy
• Environmental Federalism and Conservation Efforts
• Federalism and Immigration Policies
• Indigenous Rights and Self-Government in Federal States
• Federalism and Education Policy
• The Role of Regional Parties in Federal Politics
• Federalism and Disaster Response
• Energy Policy and Federal-State Relations
• Federalism and Criminal Justice Reform
• Local Autonomy and Decentralization in Federal Systems
• The Impact of Federal Systems on Economic Development
• Constitutional Reform and Changes in Federalism
• Federalism and Social Welfare Programs
• The European Model of Federalism
• Comparative Analysis of Dual and Cooperative Federalism
• Foreign Policy
• Diplomatic Strategies in International Relations
• The Influence of Public Opinion on Foreign Policy
• Economic Diplomacy and Trade Negotiations
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Foreign Policy
• Conflict Resolution and Peacekeeping Efforts
• International Human Rights Advocacy and Foreign Policy
• Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy
• Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Control
• Cybersecurity and Foreign Policy Challenges
• Climate Diplomacy and Global Environmental Agreements
• Refugee and Migration Policies in International Relations
• The Impact of International Organizations on Foreign Policy
• Energy Security and Geopolitical Strategies
• Regional Alliances and Security Agreements
• Terrorism and Counterterrorism Strategies
• Humanitarian Interventions and Responsibility to Protect
• The Role of Intelligence Agencies in Foreign Policy
• Economic Sanctions and Their Effectiveness
• Foreign Aid and Development Assistance
• International Law and Treaty Negotiations
• Gender and Politics
• Gender Representation in Political Leadership
• The Impact of Women’s Movements on Gender Policy
• Gender-Based Violence and Political Responses
• Intersectionality and Identity Politics in Gender Advocacy
• Gender Mainstreaming in Government Policies
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Political Movements
• Women in Conflict Resolution and Peace Negotiations
• The Gender Pay Gap and Labor Policies
• Female Political Empowerment and Quotas
• Masculinity Studies and Political Behavior
• Gender and Environmental Justice
• The Role of Men in Promoting Gender Equality
• Gender Stereotypes and Political Campaigns
• Reproductive Rights and Political Debates
• Gender, Race, and Political Power
• Feminist Foreign Policy and Global Women’s Rights
• Gender and Healthcare Policy
• Gender Disparities in Education Access
• Gender, Technology, and Digital Divide
• Patriarchy and Its Effects on Political Systems
• Globalization and Politics
• The Impact of Globalization on National Sovereignty
• Trade Agreements and Their Political Implications
• Globalization and Income Inequality
• Environmental Policies in the Globalized World
• Cultural Diversity in a Globalized Society
• Globalization and Labor Movements
• Global Health Governance and Pandemics
• Migration and Political Responses to Globalization
• Technology and Global Political Connectivity
• Globalization and Political Populism
• Human Rights in a Globalized Context
• Globalization and the Spread of Political Ideas
• Global Supply Chains and Political Vulnerabilities
• Media and Information Flow in Global Politics
• Globalization and Terrorism Networks
• Transnational Corporations and Political Influence
• Globalization and Political Identity
• The Role of International Organizations in Managing Globalization
• Globalization and Climate Change Politics
• Globalization and Post-Pandemic Political Challenges
• Political Ideologies
• Liberalism and Its Contemporary Relevance
• Conservatism in Modern Political Thought
• Socialism and Its Variations in Different Countries
• Fascism and the Rise of Far-Right Ideologies
• Anarchism and Political Movements
• Marxism and Its Influence on Political Theory
• Environmentalism as a Political Ideology
• Feminism and Its Political Manifestations
• Populism as an Emerging Political Ideology
• Nationalism and Its Role in Contemporary Politics
• Multiculturalism and Political Pluralism
• Postcolonialism and Its Impact on Global Politics
• Postmodernism and Its Critique of Political Discourse
• Religious Political Ideologies and Fundamentalism
• Libertarianism and Minimalist Government
• Technological Utopianism and Political Change
• Eco-Socialism and Environmental Politics
• Identity Politics and Intersectional Ideologies
• Indigenous Political Thought and Movements
• Futurism and Political Visions of Tomorrow

Checks and Balances

• The Role of the Executive Branch in Checks and Balances
• Congressional Oversight and Accountability
• The Separation of Powers in Parliamentary Systems
• Checks and Balances in Local Government
• Media and Public Opinion as Checks on Government
• Bureaucratic Agencies and Their Role in Oversight
• The Balance of Power in Federal Systems
• The Role of Political Parties in Checks and Balances
• Checks and Balances in Authoritarian Regimes
• The Role of Interest Groups in Government Oversight
• The Influence of Lobbying on Checks and Balances
• The Role of the Courts in Presidential Accountability
• Checks and Balances in Times of National Crisis
• The Use of Veto Power in Checks and Balances
• Checks and Balances and the Protection of Civil Liberties
• The Role of Whistleblowers in Exposing Government Misconduct
• Checks and Balances and National Security Policies
• The Evolution of Checks and Balances in Modern Democracies
• Interest Groups and Lobbies
• The Influence of Corporate Lobbying on Public Policy
• Interest Groups and Campaign Finance in Politics
• Advocacy Groups and Their Impact on Legislative Agendas
• The Role of Unions in Interest Group Politics
• Environmental Organizations and Lobbying Efforts
• Identity-Based Interest Groups and Their Political Power
• Health Advocacy Groups and Healthcare Policy
• The Influence of Foreign Lobbying on U.S. Politics
• Interest Groups and Regulatory Capture
• Interest Groups in Comparative Politics
• The Use of Social Media in Interest Group Campaigns
• Gun Control Advocacy and Interest Group Dynamics
• Religious Organizations and Political Lobbying
• Interest Groups and Human Rights Advocacy
• Farming and Agricultural Interest Groups
• Interest Groups and Education Policy
• LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Political Representation
• Interest Groups and Criminal Justice Reform
• Veterans’ Organizations and Their Political Clout
• Interest Groups and Their Role in Shaping Public Opinion
• International Relations
• Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism
• Power Politics and International Security
• The Role of Diplomacy in Conflict Resolution
• Multilateralism vs. Unilateralism in International Relations
• International Organizations and Their Influence on World Politics
• Global Governance and Challenges to Sovereignty
• Humanitarian Interventions and the Responsibility to Protect
• Non-State Actors in International Relations
• International Law and Its Application in Conflict Zones
• Arms Control Agreements and Nuclear Proliferation
• International Trade Agreements and Economic Diplomacy
• International Environmental Agreements and Climate Change
• Cybersecurity Threats in the Digital Age
• Refugee Crises and Forced Migration on the Global Stage
• Geopolitics of Energy Resources
• Peacekeeping Operations and Conflict Prevention
• Global Health Diplomacy and Pandemic Response
• The Role of Intelligence Agencies in International Relations
• The Changing Dynamics of U.S.-China Relations

International Security

• Cybersecurity Threats and Global Security
• Arms Control and Nuclear Non-Proliferation
• Regional Conflict and Security Implications
• Humanitarian Interventions and Security Dilemmas
• Intelligence Sharing and National Security
• Environmental Security and Resource Conflicts
• Non-State Actors in Global Security
• Maritime Security and Freedom of Navigation
• The Role of International Organizations in Global Security
• Military Alliances and Collective Defense
• Space Security and Militarization of Outer Space
• Cyber Warfare and State-Sponsored Hacking
• Security Challenges in Post-Conflict Zones
• Refugee Crises and Security Implications
• Emerging Technologies and Security Risks
• Energy Security and Geopolitical Tensions
• Food Security and Global Agricultural Policies
• Biological and Chemical Weapons Proliferation
• Climate Change and Security Threats

Latin American Politics

• Populism in Latin American Politics
• Drug Trafficking and Security Challenges
• Political Instability and Regime Changes
• Indigenous Movements and Political Representation
• Corruption Scandals and Governance Issues
• Environmental Politics and Conservation Efforts
• Social Movements and Protests in Latin America
• Economic Inequality and Poverty Reduction Strategies
• Human Rights Violations and Accountability
• The Role of the United States in Latin American Politics
• Regional Integration and Trade Agreements
• Gender Equality and Women in Politics
• Land Reform and Agrarian Policies
• Indigenous Rights and Land Conflicts
• Media Freedom and Political Discourse
• Migration Patterns and Regional Impacts
• Authoritarian Regimes and Democratic Backsliding
• Drug Legalization Debates in Latin America
• Religious Influence in Politics
• Latin American Diplomacy and International Relations
• Law and Courts
• Judicial Independence and the Rule of Law
• Constitutional Interpretation and Originalism
• Supreme Court Decision-Making and Precedent
• Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibility
• Criminal Justice Reform and Sentencing Policies
• Civil Rights Litigation and Legal Activism
• International Law and Its Application in Domestic Courts
• Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
• The Role of Judges in Shaping Public Policy
• Access to Justice and Legal Aid Programs
• Gender Bias in Legal Systems
• Intellectual Property Rights and Legal Challenges
• Immigration Law and Border Control
• Environmental Law and Sustainability
• Corporate Governance and Legal Compliance
• Privacy Rights in the Digital Age
• Family Law and Custody Disputes
• Law and Technology: Legal Issues in AI and Robotics
• Legal Education and Training of Lawyers
• Legal Pluralism and Customary Law Systems
• Legislative Studies
• The Role of Legislative Bodies in Policy-Making
• Parliamentary Systems vs. Presidential Systems
• Legislative Oversight and Government Accountability
• Party Politics and Legislative Behavior
• Committee Structures and Decision-Making Processes
• Electoral Systems and Their Impact on Legislation
• Minority Rights and Representation in Legislatures
• Lobbying and Interest Group Influence on Legislators
• Legislative Ethics and Codes of Conduct
• The Evolution of Legislative Bodies in Modern Democracies
• Legislative Responses to Crises and Emergencies
• Legislative Innovations and Reforms
• Legislative Responsiveness to Public Opinion
• Legislative Term Limits and Their Effects
• Gender Parity in Legislative Representation
• Legislative Coalitions and Majority Building
• Legislative Role in Budgetary Processes
• Legislative Oversight of Intelligence Agencies
• Subnational Legislatures and Regional Autonomy
• Comparative Analysis of Legislative Systems

Middle Eastern Politics

• The Arab Spring and Political Transformations
• Sectarianism and Conflict in the Middle East
• Authoritarianism and Political Repression
• The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict and Peace Efforts
• Oil Politics and Resource-Driven Conflicts
• Terrorism and Insurgency in the Middle East
• Foreign Interventions and Proxy Wars
• Human Rights Abuses and Accountability
• Religious Politics and Extremism
• Migration and Refugees in the Middle East
• Women’s Rights and Gender Equality
• Political Islam and Islamist Movements
• Water Scarcity and Regional Tensions
• Media and Censorship in Middle Eastern States
• Kurdish Politics and Autonomy Movements
• Sectarianism and Its Impact on State Structures
• Economic Challenges and Youth Unemployment
• Environmental Issues and Sustainability
• Iran’s Role in Regional Politics
• Middle Eastern Diplomacy and Global Relations

Nation and State

• National Identity and Its Influence on Statehood
• Secession Movements and the Question of Statehood
• Stateless Nations and the Right to Self-Determination
• State-Building in Post-Conflict Zones
• Failed States and International Interventions
• Ethnic Nationalism and Nation-Building
• Federalism and Devolution of Powers
• State Symbols and Nationalism
• Nationalism and Economic Policies
• Colonial Legacy and the Formation of Nations
• Territorial Disputes and State Sovereignty
• Ethnic Minorities and Their Political Rights
• Globalization and the Erosion of Statehood
• Nationalism in the Era of Transnationalism
• Nationalist Movements and Regional Autonomy
• The Role of Education in Shaping National Identity
• National Symbols and Their Political Significance
• Migration and Its Impact on National Identity
• Cultural Diversity and Nation-Building Challenges
• The Role of Language in Defining Nationhood

Political Behavior

• Voter Turnout and Political Participation Rates
• Political Socialization and Civic Engagement
• Partisan Loyalty and Voting Behavior
• Political Trust and Public Opinion
• Political Apathy and Its Causes
• Political Mobilization Strategies
• Protest Movements and Activism
• Electoral Behavior and Decision-Making
• Political Communication and Information Sources
• Political Social Networks and Online Activism
• Political Behavior of Youth and Generational Differences
• Political Behavior of Minority Groups
• Gender and Political Participation
• Social Media Influence on Political Behavior
• Public Opinion Polling and Its Impact
• Political Psychology and Behavioral Analysis
• Political Behavior in Non-Democratic Systems
• Voting Behavior in Swing States
• Political Behavior in Times of Crisis
• Political Behavior Research Methodologies

Political Change

• Regime Change and Democratization
• Revolution and Political Transformation
• Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Reconciliation
• Political Leadership and Change Initiatives
• Nonviolent Movements and Political Change
• Social Movements and Policy Reforms
• The Role of Technology in Political Change
• Political Change in Authoritarian Regimes
• Youth-Led Political Change Movements
• Resistance Movements and Their Strategies
• Cultural Movements and Political Change
• Environmental Movements and Policy Impact
• Economic Crisis and Political Change
• International Influence on Political Change
• Indigenous Movements and Political Empowerment
• Women’s Movements and Gender-Driven Change
• Grassroots Movements and Local Governance
• The Impact of Global Events on Political Change
• Political Change and Human Rights
• Comparative Studies of Political Change

Political Communication

• Media Influence on Political Attitudes
• Political Advertising and Campaign Strategies
• Political Rhetoric and Persuasion Techniques
• Social Media and Political Discourse
• Political Debates and Public Perception
• Crisis Communication and Political Leadership
• Media Ownership and Political Influence
• Propaganda and Information Warfare
• Fact-Checking and Media Accountability
• News Framing and Agenda Setting
• Political Satire and Public Opinion
• Political Communication in Multicultural Societies
• Crisis Communication and Government Response
• Public Relations and Political Image Management
• Political Talk Shows and Public Engagement
• The Role of Polling in Political Communication
• Speechwriting and Political Oratory
• Media Literacy and Critical Thinking
• Political Communication Ethics and Responsibility
• Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Political Communication

Political Concepts

• Democracy: Theories and Applications
• Justice and Fairness in Political Systems
• Power and Authority in Governance
• Liberty and Individual Rights
• Equality: Political, Social, and Economic Dimensions
• Citizenship: Rights and Responsibilities
• Sovereignty and the State
• Representation and Political Legitimacy
• Political Obligation and Consent
• Rights vs. Welfare: A Philosophical Debate
• The Common Good in Political Philosophy
• Social Contract Theories and Political Order
• Freedom of Speech and Political Discourse
• Political Ideals and Utopian Visions
• The Ethics of Political Decision-Making
• Anarchy and Political Order
• Nationalism and Patriotism as Political Concepts
• Political Realism vs. Idealism
• Human Dignity and Political Values
• Multiculturalism and Cultural Diversity in Politics

Political Economy

• Economic Policies and Political Decision-Making
• The Impact of Global Trade Agreements on National Economies
• Income Inequality and Political Consequences
• Taxation Policies and Political Debates
• Political Influence on Central Banks
• Economic Growth vs. Environmental Sustainability
• Government Regulation of Financial Markets
• Economic Crises and Political Responses
• Populism and Economic Policies
• Economic Development and Political Stability
• Corruption and Economic Performance
• Political Economy of Resource-Rich Nations
• International Trade Wars and Political Tensions
• Fiscal Policies and Government Budgets
• Labor Market Policies and Political Alignment
• Economic Ideologies and Political Parties
• Globalization and Income Redistribution
• Economic Populism and Public Opinion
• Economic Forecasting and Political Decision-Making
• Comparative Studies of Political Economies

Political Parties

• Party Systems and Electoral Politics
• Party Platforms and Policy Agendas
• Coalition Politics and Party Alliances
• Third Parties and Their Influence
• Party Funding and Campaign Finance
• Political Party Polarization
• Party Identification and Voter Behavior
• Party Primaries and Candidate Selection
• Populist Parties and Their Impact
• Minor Parties and Representation
• Party Discipline and Legislative Behavior
• Party Systems in Non-Democratic States
• Party Leadership and Ideological Shifts
• Party Membership and Activism
• Youth Participation in Political Parties
• Party Conventions and Political Strategy
• Party Mergers and Dissolutions
• Ethnic and Religious Parties in Multi-Cultural Societies
• Popularity of Anti-Establishment Parties
• Comparative Studies of Political Party Systems

Political Psychology

• Political Attitudes and Ideological Beliefs
• Personality Traits and Political Preferences
• Political Socialization and Identity Formation
• Political Trust and Distrust
• Group Psychology and Political Behavior
• The Role of Emotions in Political Decision-Making
• Cognitive Biases and Political Judgment
• Political Persuasion and Communication
• Political Polarization and Social Identity
• Fear and Political Behavior
• Voter Apathy and Psychological Factors
• Motivated Reasoning in Politics
• Political Stereotypes and Prejudices
• Political Leadership and Charisma
• Political Participation and Civic Psychology
• Mass Movements and Crowd Psychology
• Political Stress and Mental Health
• The Psychology of Political Extremism
• Political Tolerance and Intolerance
• Cross-Cultural Perspectives in Political Psychology

Political Theory

• Theories of Justice and Equality
• Democratic Theory and Political Legitimacy
• Social Contract Theories in Political Philosophy
• The Ethics of Political Leadership
• Political Authority and Obedience
• Rights and Liberties in Political Theory
• Political Utopias and Ideal Societies
• Power and Its Distribution in Political Thought
• Political Liberalism vs. Communitarianism
• The Role of Consent in Governance
• Political Anarchism and Stateless Societies
• The Philosophy of Political Revolution
• Political Philosophy and Human Rights
• Theories of Political Representation
• Feminist Political Theory and Gender Equality
• Cosmopolitanism and Global Justice
• Political Conservatism and Traditionalism
• Postmodernism and Deconstruction in Political Theory
• Critical Theory and Social Change
• Comparative Political Theories

Politics and Society

• The Societal Impact of Welfare Policies
• Environmental Policies and Sustainable Societies
• Social Movements and Their Political Goals
• Education Policies and Social Equity
• Healthcare Policies and Public Health
• Criminal Justice Policies and Social Inequality
• Immigration Policies and Integration Challenges
• Social Media and Political Activism
• Identity Politics and Social Cohesion
• Economic Policies and Income Distribution
• Civil Society and Political Engagement
• Social Capital and Political Participation
• Family Policies and Social Values
• Multiculturalism and Cultural Diversity
• Social Inclusion and Exclusion in Politics
• Urbanization and Political Dynamics
• Social Stratification and Political Behavior
• Aging Populations and Policy Implications
• Social Norms and Political Change
• Cross-Cultural Studies of Politics and Society

Politics of Oppression

• Political Repression and Human Rights Violations
• The Role of Mass Media in Oppression
• Authoritarian Regimes and Dissent
• Gender-Based Oppression and Activism
• State Surveillance and Privacy Rights
• Indigenous Rights and Anti-Oppression Movements
• Political Exile and Dissident Communities
• Censorship and Freedom of Expression
• Political Violence and Resistance
• Ethnic Conflict and Oppressed Minorities
• The Psychology of Oppression and Compliance
• Political Persecution and International Responses
• Refugees and Asylum Politics
• Oppression in Cyber-Space
• Socioeconomic Oppression and Inequality
• Historical Perspectives on Political Oppression
• Anti-Oppression Legislation and Human Rights Advocacy
• Discrimination and the Law
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Oppression
• Comparative Studies of Oppressive Regimes

Public Administration

• Bureaucratic Accountability and Transparency
• Public Sector Reform and Modernization
• Administrative Ethics and Integrity
• Performance Measurement in Public Administration
• E-Government and Digital Transformation
• Public-Private Partnerships in Service Delivery
• Administrative Decision-Making and Policy Implementation
• Leadership and Change Management in the Public Sector
• Civil Service Systems and Human Resource Management
• Administrative Law and Legal Challenges
• Emergency Management and Crisis Response
• Local Government and Municipal Administration
• Public Budgeting and Financial Management
• Public Administration and Social Welfare Programs
• Environmental Administration and Sustainability
• Healthcare Administration and Policy
• Public Diplomacy and International Relations
• Administrative Responsiveness and Citizen Engagement
• Public Administration in Developing Nations
• Comparative Public Administration Studies

Public Policy

• Policy Analysis and Evaluation
• The Role of Think Tanks in Policy Formulation
• Policy Implementation Challenges and Solutions
• Policy Advocacy and Lobbying
• Healthcare Policy and Access to Medical Services
• Education Policy and Curriculum Development
• Social Welfare Policies and Poverty Alleviation
• Environmental Policy and Conservation Efforts
• Technology and Innovation Policy
• Immigration Policy and Border Control
• Security and Defense Policy
• Transportation and Infrastructure Policy
• Energy Policy and Sustainability
• Foreign Aid and Development Policies
• Taxation Policy and Revenue Generation
• Criminal Justice Policy and Sentencing Reform
• Trade Policy and Economic Growth
• Drug Policy and Harm Reduction Strategies
• Social and Cultural Policy Initiatives
• Comparative Policy Studies

Race/Ethnicity, and Politics

• Racial Discrimination and Political Activism
• Ethnic Conflict and Identity Politics
• Minority Rights and Representation
• Racial Profiling and Policing
• Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity
• Indigenous Rights and Autonomy Movements
• Racial and Ethnic Voting Patterns
• The Role of Race in Political Campaigns
• Immigration Policies and Racial Implications
• Intersectionality and Multiple Identities
• Ethnic Diversity and Social Cohesion
• Slavery, Colonialism, and Historical Injustices
• Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Healthcare
• Education and Racial Achievement Gaps
• Media Representation and Stereotyping
• Hate Crimes and Extremist Movements
• Reparations and Compensation for Historical Wrongs
• Cultural Appropriation and Identity Politics
• Multiculturalism and Integration Policies
• Comparative Studies of Race and Politics

Religion and Politics

• The Role of Religious Institutions in Politics
• Religious Freedom and Secularism
• Faith-Based Advocacy and Social Change
• Religion and International Relations
• Religious Extremism and Terrorism
• Religion and Gender Equality
• Religious Minorities and Discrimination
• Political Parties and Religious Affiliation
• Religion and Environmental Ethics
• Interfaith Dialogue and Peacebuilding
• Religious Ethics and Public Policy
• Religion in Education and Curriculum Debates
• Charitable and Faith-Based Organizations
• Religious Symbols and Public Spaces
• Sacred Texts and Political Interpretations
• Pilgrimage and Political Pilgrimage
• Religion and Human Rights
• Religious Conversion and Apostasy
• Faith and Political Leadership
• Comparative Studies of Religion and Politics

Electoral Systems

• The Impact of Electoral Systems on Representation
• Proportional Representation vs. First-Past-the-Post
• Gerrymandering and Electoral Manipulation
• Electronic Voting and Election Security
• Ranked Choice Voting Systems
• Voter Turnout and Participation Rates
• Minority Representation in Electoral Systems
• Campaign Finance and Electoral Outcomes
• Voter Registration and Access to Voting
• Electoral Reforms and Political Parties
• Voting Behavior and Demographic Patterns
• Gender and Electoral Politics
• Electoral Systems in Post-Conflict Nations
• Hybrid Electoral Systems
• Electoral Justice and Redistricting
• Political Parties and Coalition Building
• Election Observation and International Standards
• Electoral Systems and Ethnic Conflict
• Voter Suppression and Disenfranchisement
• Electoral Systems in Non-Democratic Regimes

Rights and Freedoms

• Freedom of Speech and Censorship
• Civil Liberties in Times of Crisis
• Religious Freedom and Freedom of Worship
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Advocacy
• The Right to Protest and Assembly
• Racial Profiling and Discrimination
• Right to Bear Arms and Gun Control
• Refugee Rights and Asylum Seekers
• Indigenous Rights and Land Sovereignty
• Rights of the Accused and Due Process
• Access to Healthcare as a Human Right
• Education as a Fundamental Right
• Economic Rights and Income Inequality
• Children’s Rights and Child Protection
• Disability Rights and Accessibility
• Prisoner Rights and Criminal Justice Reform
• Freedom of the Press and Media Ethics
• Comparative Human Rights Frameworks

Science/Technology and Politics

• Cybersecurity and Election Interference
• Surveillance Technologies and Privacy
• Artificial Intelligence in Governance
• Internet Regulation and Net Neutrality
• Space Exploration and International Cooperation
• Ethical Implications of Biotechnology
• Climate Science and Environmental Policy
• Digital Diplomacy and International Relations
• Technology in Disaster Management
• Data Protection and Online Privacy
• Social Media and Political Influence
• Bioethics and Genetic Engineering
• Ethical Considerations in Artificial Intelligence
• Intellectual Property Rights and Innovation
• Ethical Dilemmas in Scientific Research
• Quantum Computing and National Security
• Robotics and the Future of Labor
• E-Government Initiatives and Digital Services
• Environmental Ethics and Sustainability
• Technology Transfer in Developing Nations

War and Peace

• Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy
• Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict Reconstruction
• Arms Control and Non-Proliferation Agreements
• Nuclear Deterrence and Arms Races
• Cyber Warfare and International Law
• Refugee Crises and Forced Displacement
• United Nations Peacekeeping Missions
• War Crimes and International Tribunals
• Security Alliances and Collective Defense
• Civil Wars and State Fragmentation
• Weapons of Mass Destruction and Global Security
• Peace Accords and Conflict Resolution
• Conflict Journalism and Media Coverage
• Civilian Protection and Human Rights in Conflict Zones
• The Ethics of Humanitarian Aid
• Regional Conflicts and Regional Organizations
• Conflict-Induced Migration and Refugee Policies
• The Role of Religion in Peace and Conflict

This comprehensive list merely scratches the surface of the intriguing topics available within the realm of political science. From the intricacies of constitutional law to the dynamics of Asian politics and the complexities of comparative analysis, the field of political science offers a rich tapestry of subjects for your research pursuits. We encourage you to explore these topics, refine your interests, and embark on an academic journey that not only expands your knowledge but also contributes to the broader discourse on politics and governance. As you navigate this list, remember that the key to a successful research paper is your passion for the subject matter. Choose a topic that resonates with you, and let your curiosity drive your exploration of political science research paper topics.

Browse More Political Science Topics:

• African Politics and Society
• American Politics and Society
• Asian Politics and Society
• Culture, Media, and Language
• European Politics and Society
• Federalism and Local Politics
• Institutions and Checks and Balances
• International Security and Arms Control
• Latin American Politics and Society

The Range of Political Science Research Paper Topics

Introduction

Political science, the systematic study of politics and government, provides valuable insights into the complex world of governance, policy-making, and international relations. For students of political science, selecting the right research paper topic can be the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of these intricate issues. This page serves as a comprehensive guide to the rich array of Political Science Research Paper Topics available, offering a detailed overview of the field and highlighting its significant contributions to society.

Exploring Political Science

Political science plays a pivotal role in deciphering the dynamics of the modern world. By analyzing the behavior of individuals, groups, and institutions in political settings, it seeks to unravel the complexities of governance and decision-making. This discipline’s significance extends far beyond the classroom, as it directly informs public policy, governance structures, and international relations.

The research conducted within political science serves as the foundation for crafting effective policies and addressing pressing global challenges. Governments and organizations worldwide rely on the expertise of political scientists to provide evidence-based recommendations and solutions. Whether it’s designing social welfare programs, analyzing international conflicts, or studying voter behavior, political science research is at the forefront of shaping the way societies function.

The Essence of Political Science

Political science is the intellectual foundation of modern political analysis and policy-making. It serves as a bridge between theory and practice, helping individuals understand not only the “what” but also the “why” and “how” of political phenomena. By examining political behavior, institutions, and ideologies, this field equips students with the tools to navigate the complexities of governance and to critically evaluate the policies that shape our lives.

One of the defining features of political science is its interdisciplinary nature. It draws from various disciplines, including history, economics, sociology, psychology, and philosophy, to offer a holistic understanding of political processes. For students passionate about examining the social and political forces that shape our world, political science is a vibrant and intellectually rewarding field of study.

The Relevance of Political Science Research

Political science research is not confined to academic ivory towers; it has a profound impact on society. The evidence-based insights generated by political scientists guide governments, inform public discourse, and influence policy decisions. Research on topics such as voting behavior helps in understanding democratic processes, while studies on international relations contribute to strategies for peacekeeping and diplomacy.

Political scientists also play a crucial role in examining and addressing contemporary global challenges. They explore topics such as climate change, migration, and human rights, offering valuable insights that can shape policies and international cooperation. The relevance of political science research extends to issues of governance, accountability, and the promotion of democratic values.

Range of Research Paper Topics

Within the vast realm of political science, there exists a diverse range of research paper topics that cater to different interests and perspectives. These topics encompass various subfields, each shedding light on distinct aspects of political behavior, institutions, and ideologies. Here, we delve into some of the intriguing areas that can serve as the foundation for your research endeavors:

Democracy and Democratization : The study of democratic systems and processes is a cornerstone of political science. Research in this area may explore topics such as the challenges of democratization in emerging nations, the role of media in shaping public opinion, or the impact of electoral systems on representation.

Political Corruption : Understanding and combating political corruption is critical for the integrity of governments worldwide. Research topics may range from analyzing corruption’s economic and social consequences to exploring strategies for prevention and enforcement.

Globalization and Politics : In an increasingly interconnected world, globalization profoundly influences political dynamics. Research in this area can examine issues like the impact of globalization on national sovereignty, the role of international organizations, or the ethics of global trade.

Political Ideologies : The realm of political ideologies delves into the philosophies and belief systems that underpin political movements and parties. Topics may include the examination of specific ideologies such as liberalism, conservatism, or socialism, and their historical evolution.

Science/Technology and Politics : The intersection of science, technology, and politics is a fertile ground for research. This area covers topics like the influence of digital platforms on political discourse, ethical considerations in artificial intelligence, and the role of technology in election campaigns.

War and Peace : The study of international conflict and peacekeeping efforts remains a central concern in political science. Research may focus on issues like the causes of armed conflicts, peace negotiation strategies, or the ethics of humanitarian interventions.

Religion and Politics : Religion’s impact on political behavior and policies is a subject of ongoing debate. Research in this area can explore the role of religious institutions in politics, the influence of faith on voting patterns, or interfaith relations in diverse societies.

Race/Ethnicity, and Politics : The intersection of race, ethnicity, and politics raises critical questions about representation and equality. Research topics may encompass racial disparities in political participation, the impact of identity politics, or the dynamics of minority-majority relations.

Public Policy and Administration : The field of public policy and administration involves the study of how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated. Topics may include healthcare policy, environmental regulations, or the role of bureaucracy in shaping public programs.

International Relations : International relations examine interactions between states and the complexities of the global order. Research topics may focus on diplomacy, international organizations, global conflicts, or the challenges of international cooperation.

Human Rights and Justice : The study of human rights and justice explores ethical dilemmas and legal frameworks. Research may encompass issues like refugee rights, humanitarian law, or the role of international courts in addressing human rights abuses.

Environmental Politics : In an era of environmental challenges, political science research on environmental politics is vital. Topics may cover climate change policy, sustainable development, or the politics of natural resource management.

Evaluating Political Science Research Topics

As students explore these diverse topics, it’s essential to consider various factors when choosing a research paper topic. Here are some key considerations:

• Personal Interest : Select a topic that genuinely interests you. Your passion for the subject matter will fuel your research efforts and maintain your motivation throughout the project.
• Relevance : Consider the relevance of your chosen topic to current political debates, policies, or global issues. Research that addresses pressing concerns often has a more significant impact.
• Feasibility : Assess the availability of data, research materials, and access to experts or primary sources. Ensure that your chosen topic is researchable within your constraints.
• Originality : While it’s not necessary to reinvent the wheel, aim to contribute something new or offer a fresh perspective on existing debates or issues.
• Scope : Define the scope of your research clearly. Determine whether your topic is too broad or too narrow and adjust it accordingly.
• Methodology : Think about the research methods you’ll use. Will you conduct surveys, interviews, content analysis, or use historical data? Ensure that your chosen methods align with your topic.
• Ethical Considerations : Be mindful of ethical considerations, especially when dealing with sensitive topics or human subjects. Ensure that your research adheres to ethical standards.

Political science, as a multifaceted discipline, holds immense relevance in today’s world. Its research not only informs governance and policy-making but also empowers individuals to engage critically with the complex political issues of our time. The spectrum of Political Science Research Paper Topics is vast, reflecting the diversity of political phenomena and ideas.

As students embark on their research journeys in political science, they have the opportunity to make meaningful contributions to our understanding of governance, society, and international relations. By choosing topics that resonate with their interests and align with the pressing issues of the day, students can truly make a difference in the field of political science.

In closing, we encourage students to explore the wealth of Political Science Research Paper Topics, delve deep into their chosen areas of study, and harness the power of knowledge to effect positive change in the political landscape.

Choosing Political Science Research Paper Topics

Selecting the right research topic is a crucial step in the journey of academic inquiry. It sets the tone for your entire research paper, influencing its direction, depth, and impact. When it comes to political science research paper topics, the stakes are high, as the field encompasses a wide range of subjects that can shape our understanding of governance, policy-making, and international relations. In this section, we’ll explore ten valuable tips to help you choose political science research paper topics that align with your interests, resonate with current debates, and provide ample research opportunities.

10 Tips for Choosing Political Science Research Paper Topics:

• Follow Your Passion : Begin your quest for the right research topic by considering your interests. Passion for a subject often fuels motivation and ensures your engagement throughout the research process. Whether it’s human rights, international diplomacy, or environmental policy, choose a topic that genuinely excites you.
• Stay Informed : Keep abreast of current political events, debates, and emerging issues. Reading newspapers, academic journals, and reputable websites can help you identify contemporary topics that are both relevant and research-worthy. Being informed about current affairs is essential for crafting timely and impactful research.
• Explore Gaps in Existing Literature : Conduct a thorough literature review to identify gaps or areas where further research is needed. This not only helps you understand the existing discourse but also provides insights into unexplored avenues for your research. Building on or critiquing existing research can contribute significantly to the field.
• Consider Policy Relevance : Think about the practical relevance of your chosen topic. How does it connect to real-world policy challenges? Research that addresses pressing policy issues tends to have a more substantial impact and can attract the attention of policymakers and practitioners.
• Delve into Comparative Studies : Comparative politics offers a wealth of research opportunities by allowing you to examine political systems, policies, or issues across different countries or regions. Comparative studies can yield valuable insights into the impact of context and culture on political outcomes.
• Narrow or Broaden Your Focus : Be mindful of the scope of your research topic. Some topics may be too broad to cover comprehensively in a single paper, while others may be too narrow, limiting available research material. Strike a balance by defining your research question or problem statement clearly.
• Consult Your Professors and Peers : Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your professors or peers. They can offer valuable insights, suggest relevant literature, and help you refine your research question. Collaboration and mentorship can significantly enhance your research experience.
• Evaluate Feasibility : Assess the feasibility of your chosen topic. Consider the availability of data, research materials, and access to experts or primary sources. Ensure that your research is doable within your constraints, including time and resources.
• Embrace Interdisciplinary Perspectives : Political science often intersects with other disciplines, such as sociology, economics, or environmental science. Explore interdisciplinary angles to enrich your research. Collaborating with experts from related fields can lead to innovative insights.
• Ethical Considerations : When selecting a research topic, be mindful of ethical considerations, especially if your research involves human subjects or sensitive issues. Ensure that your research adheres to ethical standards and obtains the necessary approvals.

Choosing the right political science research paper topic is a dynamic process that requires reflection, exploration, and critical thinking. By following these ten tips, you can navigate the landscape of political science topics with confidence. Remember that your research topic is not set in stone; it can evolve as you delve deeper into your studies and gain new insights.

As you embark on your research journey, keep in mind that the topics you choose have the potential to contribute to our understanding of the political world, inform policy decisions, and shape the future of governance. Embrace the opportunity to explore, question, and discover, for it is through research that we illuminate the path to progress in the field of political science.

Choose your topics wisely, engage in meaningful inquiry, and let your passion for political science drive your pursuit of knowledge.

How to Write a Political Science Research Paper

Writing a research paper in political science is a distinctive journey that allows you to explore complex issues, develop critical thinking skills, and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field. Effective research paper writing is not only about conveying your ideas clearly but also about constructing a compelling argument supported by rigorous evidence. In this section, we’ll delve into ten valuable tips that will help you craft high-quality political science research papers, enabling you to communicate your findings effectively and make a meaningful impact.

10 Tips for Writing Political Science Research Papers:

• Thoroughly Understand the Assignment : Before you start writing, carefully read and understand your assignment guidelines. Clarify any doubts with your professor, ensuring you have a clear grasp of the expectations regarding format, length, and content.
• Choose a Strong Thesis Statement : Your thesis statement is the heart of your research paper. It should be clear, concise, and arguable. Ensure that it presents a central argument or question that your paper will address.
• Conduct In-Depth Research : A robust research paper relies on well-sourced evidence. Explore academic journals, books, reputable websites, and primary sources related to your topic. Take detailed notes and keep track of your sources for accurate citations.
• Structure Your Paper Effectively : Organize your paper logically, with a coherent introduction, body, and conclusion. Each section should flow smoothly, building upon the previous one. Use headings and subheadings to guide your reader.
• Craft a Captivating Introduction : Your introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide context for your research. It should introduce your thesis statement and outline the main points you will address.
• Develop a Compelling Argument : Present a clear and well-reasoned argument throughout your paper. Each paragraph should support your thesis statement, with evidence and analysis that reinforces your position.
• Cite Your Sources Properly : Accurate citations are crucial in political science research papers. Follow the citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago) specified in your assignment guidelines. Pay careful attention to in-text citations and the bibliography.
• Edit and Proofread Diligently : Writing is rewriting. After completing your initial draft, take the time to revise and edit your paper. Check for clarity, coherence, grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or professors.
• Stay Objective and Avoid Bias : Political science research requires objectivity. Avoid personal bias and ensure that your analysis is based on evidence and sound reasoning. Acknowledge counterarguments and address them respectfully.
• Craft a Strong Conclusion : Summarize your main points and restate your thesis in the conclusion. Discuss the implications of your research and suggest areas for future study. Leave your reader with a lasting impression.

Writing a political science research paper is not just an academic exercise; it’s an opportunity to engage with critical issues, contribute to knowledge, and develop essential skills. By applying these ten tips, you can navigate the complexities of research paper writing with confidence.

As you embark on your journey to craft high-quality papers, remember that effective communication is the key to making a meaningful impact in the realm of political science. Your research has the potential to shape discussions, influence policies, and contribute to our collective understanding of the political world.

Embrace the writing process, celebrate your achievements, and view each paper as a stepping stone in your academic and intellectual growth. Whether you’re exploring global diplomacy, dissecting political ideologies, or analyzing policy decisions, your research papers can be a force for positive change in the world of politics.

As you tackle the challenges and opportunities of political science research, remember that the knowledge you gain and the skills you develop are valuable assets that will serve you well in your academic and professional journey. Write with passion, rigor, and integrity, and let your research papers be a testament to your commitment to advancing the field of political science.

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A Political Science Guide

For students, researchers, and others interested in doing the work of political science, the research question.

One of the most important stages in the research process is formulating a research question. Both the type of question, and its significance, are important factors

It is usually a good idea to discuss your ideas for research questions with your research advisor or class instructor.

Ask questions, and consider asking  analytical   questions

Formulating your topic as a research question , rather than merely a statement can be a very useful step towards focusing the research project in general. It is common to begin with a broad topic, for instance:

“The international community’s response to piracy off the coast of Somalia.”

You could rephrase this as a descriptive question (This discussion is partly influenced by Benjamin Bloom’s 1956 Taxonomy of educational objectives. ):

“What has been the international community’s response to piracy off the coast of Somalia?”

However, while descriptive questions are important, they are limited in how much they help us understand social phenomena. More interesting questions might include:

“Why is the international community responding to piracy off the coast of Somalia? What are some of the factors impacting their choice of response?”

These are examples of analytical questions, which requires you to identify causes, reasons, and motives for action. Other interesting questions could be questions that require a creative solution to the problem. A policy question would prescribe a response to a particular situation.  For instance:

“How should the international community respond to piracy off the coast of Somalia?”

Yet other questions may require you to evaluate or make a judgment about a situation based on a set of criteria. For instance:

“Has the international community’s response to Somali piracy been effective?”

Focusing the research question

You can easily see how selecting a research question can be useful in determining the direction and scope of a project. Stating a research question can help us clarfiy exactly what will be researched.  We know that we are interested in piracy near Somalia in the questions mentioned above. We also know that we are interested in understanding the role of the international community. One decision we might make is to narrow the focus even further.  After all, the “international community” can be quite broad, consisting of international organizations, such as the United Nations, various country governments, major shipping companies that ship goods through the region, and insurance companies that insure those goods. So we might want to clarify our question even further.  The last question could be:

“Has the United States’ response to Somali piracy been effective?”

This is a clear, focused question that could form the basis of a student research paper. Which is not to say that it will be an easy question to answer. For one thing, this type of question requires us to define “effective”. Defining and measuring such core concepts is a the topic of a later section in this website. See “Concepts and Measurement”.

What makes a good question?

The types of questions that might be valuable have been the subject of some debate and discussion amongst political scientists.  King, Keohane and Verba’s 1994 book, cited below, suggests possible criteria to use in deciding on a topic and question (See especially their discussion that begins on page 14). That criteria includes two general approaches:

1. Choose a question that is important right now in the world; or

2. Choose a question that is important to the scholarly literature.

These are not mutually exclusive categories. A great question can often accomplish both. But consider carefully who you want your audience to be, and how you can make your project important to that audience.

The Quick Guide

• King, Gary, Robert Owen Keohane, and Sidney Verba. 1994. Designing social inquiry: scientific inference in qualitative research . Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press.
• Almond, Gabriel A., and Stephen J. Genco. 1977. “Clouds, Clocks, and the Study of Politics.” World Politics 29(4): 489-522.
• Indiana University Libraries: “Narrowing a Topic and Developing a Research Question”

Updated January 18, 2024

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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

Research Question Examples 🧑🏻‍🏫

25+ Practical Examples & Ideas To Help You Get Started 

By: Derek Jansen (MBA) | October 2023

A well-crafted research question (or set of questions) sets the stage for a robust study and meaningful insights.  But, if you’re new to research, it’s not always clear what exactly constitutes a good research question. In this post, we’ll provide you with clear examples of quality research questions across various disciplines, so that you can approach your research project with confidence!

Research Question Examples

• Psychology research questions
• Business research questions
• Education research questions
• Healthcare research questions
• Computer science research questions

Examples: Psychology

Let’s start by looking at some examples of research questions that you might encounter within the discipline of psychology.

How does sleep quality affect academic performance in university students?

This question is specific to a population (university students) and looks at a direct relationship between sleep and academic performance, both of which are quantifiable and measurable variables.

What factors contribute to the onset of anxiety disorders in adolescents?

The question narrows down the age group and focuses on identifying multiple contributing factors. There are various ways in which it could be approached from a methodological standpoint, including both qualitatively and quantitatively.

Do mindfulness techniques improve emotional well-being?

This is a focused research question aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific intervention.

How does early childhood trauma impact adult relationships?

This research question targets a clear cause-and-effect relationship over a long timescale, making it focused but comprehensive.

Is there a correlation between screen time and depression in teenagers?

This research question focuses on an in-demand current issue and a specific demographic, allowing for a focused investigation. The key variables are clearly stated within the question and can be measured and analysed (i.e., high feasibility).

Examples: Business/Management

Next, let’s look at some examples of well-articulated research questions within the business and management realm.

How do leadership styles impact employee retention?

This is an example of a strong research question because it directly looks at the effect of one variable (leadership styles) on another (employee retention), allowing from a strongly aligned methodological approach.

What role does corporate social responsibility play in consumer choice?

Current and precise, this research question can reveal how social concerns are influencing buying behaviour by way of a qualitative exploration.

Does remote work increase or decrease productivity in tech companies?

Focused on a particular industry and a hot topic, this research question could yield timely, actionable insights that would have high practical value in the real world.

How do economic downturns affect small businesses in the homebuilding industry?

Vital for policy-making, this highly specific research question aims to uncover the challenges faced by small businesses within a certain industry.

Which employee benefits have the greatest impact on job satisfaction?

By being straightforward and specific, answering this research question could provide tangible insights to employers.

Examples: Education

Next, let’s look at some potential research questions within the education, training and development domain.

How does class size affect students’ academic performance in primary schools?

This example research question targets two clearly defined variables, which can be measured and analysed relatively easily.

Do online courses result in better retention of material than traditional courses?

Timely, specific and focused, answering this research question can help inform educational policy and personal choices about learning formats.

What impact do US public school lunches have on student health?

Targeting a specific, well-defined context, the research could lead to direct changes in public health policies.

To what degree does parental involvement improve academic outcomes in secondary education in the Midwest?

This research question focuses on a specific context (secondary education in the Midwest) and has clearly defined constructs.

What are the negative effects of standardised tests on student learning within Oklahoma primary schools?

This research question has a clear focus (negative outcomes) and is narrowed into a very specific context.

Need a helping hand?

Examples: Healthcare

Shifting to a different field, let’s look at some examples of research questions within the healthcare space.

What are the most effective treatments for chronic back pain amongst UK senior males?

Specific and solution-oriented, this research question focuses on clear variables and a well-defined context (senior males within the UK).

How do different healthcare policies affect patient satisfaction in public hospitals in South Africa?

This question is has clearly defined variables and is narrowly focused in terms of context.

Which factors contribute to obesity rates in urban areas within California?

This question is focused yet broad, aiming to reveal several contributing factors for targeted interventions.

Does telemedicine provide the same perceived quality of care as in-person visits for diabetes patients?

Ideal for a qualitative study, this research question explores a single construct (perceived quality of care) within a well-defined sample (diabetes patients).

Which lifestyle factors have the greatest affect on the risk of heart disease?

This research question aims to uncover modifiable factors, offering preventive health recommendations.

Examples: Computer Science

Last but certainly not least, let’s look at a few examples of research questions within the computer science world.

What are the perceived risks of cloud-based storage systems?

Highly relevant in our digital age, this research question would align well with a qualitative interview approach to better understand what users feel the key risks of cloud storage are.

Which factors affect the energy efficiency of data centres in Ohio?

With a clear focus, this research question lays a firm foundation for a quantitative study.

How do TikTok algorithms impact user behaviour amongst new graduates?

While this research question is more open-ended, it could form the basis for a qualitative investigation.

What are the perceived risk and benefits of open-source software software within the web design industry?

Practical and straightforward, the results could guide both developers and end-users in their choices.

Remember, these are just examples…

In this post, we’ve tried to provide a wide range of research question examples to help you get a feel for what research questions look like in practice. That said, it’s important to remember that these are just examples and don’t necessarily equate to good research topics . If you’re still trying to find a topic, check out our topic megalist for inspiration.

Psst... there’s more!

This post was based on one of our popular Research Bootcamps . If you're working on a research project, you'll definitely want to check this out ...

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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

• Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• Debate Topics
• Argumentative Essay Topics
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• Easy Science Experiments for Kids
• 62 Research Opportunities for High School Students 
• 150 Journal Prompts for Kids, Middle, and High School Students 
• 141 Fun, Weird, and Interesting Facts 
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Tyler Talbott

Tyler holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Missouri and two Master of Arts degrees in English, one from the University of Maryland and another from Northwestern University. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in English at Northwestern University, where he also works as a graduate writing fellow.

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• Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Writing Strong Research Questions | Criteria & Examples

Published on October 26, 2022 by Shona McCombes . Revised on November 21, 2023.

A research question pinpoints exactly what you want to find out in your work. A good research question is essential to guide your research paper , dissertation , or thesis .

All research questions should be:

• Focused on a single problem or issue
• Researchable using primary and/or secondary sources
• Feasible to answer within the timeframe and practical constraints
• Specific enough to answer thoroughly
• Complex enough to develop the answer over the space of a paper or thesis
• Relevant to your field of study and/or society more broadly

Table of contents

How to write a research question, what makes a strong research question, using sub-questions to strengthen your main research question, research questions quiz, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research questions.

You can follow these steps to develop a strong research question:

• Choose your topic
• Do some preliminary reading about the current state of the field
• Narrow your focus to a specific niche
• Identify the research problem that you will address

The way you frame your question depends on what your research aims to achieve. The table below shows some examples of how you might formulate questions for different purposes.

Using your research problem to develop your research question

Note that while most research questions can be answered with various types of research , the way you frame your question should help determine your choices.

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Research questions anchor your whole project, so it’s important to spend some time refining them. The criteria below can help you evaluate the strength of your research question.

Focused and researchable

Feasible and specific

Complex and arguable

Relevant and original

Chances are that your main research question likely can’t be answered all at once. That’s why sub-questions are important: they allow you to answer your main question in a step-by-step manner.

Good sub-questions should be:

• Less complex than the main question
• Focused only on 1 type of research
• Presented in a logical order

Here are a few examples of descriptive and framing questions:

• Descriptive: According to current government arguments, how should a European bank tax be implemented?
• Descriptive: Which countries have a bank tax/levy on financial transactions?
• Framing: How should a bank tax/levy on financial transactions look at a European level?

Keep in mind that sub-questions are by no means mandatory. They should only be asked if you need the findings to answer your main question. If your main question is simple enough to stand on its own, it’s okay to skip the sub-question part. As a rule of thumb, the more complex your subject, the more sub-questions you’ll need.

Try to limit yourself to 4 or 5 sub-questions, maximum. If you feel you need more than this, it may be indication that your main research question is not sufficiently specific. In this case, it’s is better to revisit your problem statement and try to tighten your main question up.

If you want to know more about the research process , methodology , research bias , or statistics , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Methodology

• Sampling methods
• Simple random sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Cluster sampling
• Likert scales
• Reproducibility

 Statistics

• Null hypothesis
• Statistical power
• Probability distribution
• Effect size
• Poisson distribution

Research bias

• Optimism bias
• Cognitive bias
• Implicit bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Anchoring bias
• Explicit bias

The way you present your research problem in your introduction varies depending on the nature of your research paper . A research paper that presents a sustained argument will usually encapsulate this argument in a thesis statement .

A research paper designed to present the results of empirical research tends to present a research question that it seeks to answer. It may also include a hypothesis —a prediction that will be confirmed or disproved by your research.

As you cannot possibly read every source related to your topic, it’s important to evaluate sources to assess their relevance. Use preliminary evaluation to determine whether a source is worth examining in more depth.

This involves:

• Reading abstracts , prefaces, introductions , and conclusions
• Looking at the table of contents to determine the scope of the work
• Consulting the index for key terms or the names of important scholars

A research hypothesis is your proposed answer to your research question. The research hypothesis usually includes an explanation (“ x affects y because …”).

A statistical hypothesis, on the other hand, is a mathematical statement about a population parameter. Statistical hypotheses always come in pairs: the null and alternative hypotheses . In a well-designed study , the statistical hypotheses correspond logically to the research hypothesis.

Formulating a main research question can be a difficult task. Overall, your question should contribute to solving the problem that you have defined in your problem statement .

However, it should also fulfill criteria in three main areas:

• Researchability
• Feasibility and specificity
• Relevance and originality

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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.

Don't worry! Our team of qualified professionals is ready to offer research paper help , ensuring you submit quality work in no time. So why stress over extensive research and drafting when you can get expert assistance at your fingertips? Contact us now to get expert assistance.

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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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Politics Dissertation Topics

Published by Carmen Troy at January 9th, 2023 , Revised On August 16, 2023

Introduction

Politics is such a vast phenomenon that several dissertation topics can be selected from political issues. However, that selection must have some strong basis and importance in the practical field. Another fact to be kept in mind when choosing a dissertation topic is that some political issues are highly controversial, and they may not be of much value in terms of research and writing.

It should be noted that it is important that the researcher thoroughly enjoys the dissertation topic they are working on.  A boring and dry topic can later trouble them, and they might feel like regretting their selection. The following description enlists some of the dissertation topics that the researcher can select as their politics dissertation topic.

PhD qualified writers of our team have developed these topics, so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting  a brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the problem,  research questions , aim and objectives ,  literature review  along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted.  Let us know  if you need any help in getting started.

Check our  example dissertations  to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

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View our free dissertation topics database.

2022 Politics Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: politics in a digital age- assessing the impact of social media on public participation and political campaigns..

Research Aim: This study aims to find how the public has utilised social media during elections or political campaigns. This study will also focus on the impact of social networking sites on popular participation in the electoral vote and political debate. This research study will also investigate the effects of new technologies and the digital era on media and political party campaigns and media activities during elections.

Topic 2: Investigating the reasons for the Central African Republic's Rebellion.

Research Aim: This study aims to find the reasons for the central African republic conflicts and different historical factors involved in this conflict. Furthermore, it will also focus on the dynamics of the conflict and how it has resulted in violent clashes between different religious parties. This study will conduct an in-depth analysis of this conflict to give a better understanding.

Topic 3: Investigating the influence of politics on Women's Empowerment and Gender Equality.

Research Aim: This study will provide us with a detailed evaluation of the present state of gender equality and women empowerment in developing nations and the influence of politics. It will also provide an understanding of how men, women, politicians, and other powerful individuals view gender equality and women empowerment.

Topic 4: Investigating the Impact of Neo-Fascism on Twentieth-century Europe.

Research Aim: The present study will analyse the impact of neo-fascism on twentieth-century Europe. We will also focus on the history, crisis, various proposals, and methods. We will also analyse how it has helped reproduced their ideologies and formed different legislation in Europe.

Topic 5: Assessing the change in Americans Political perspectives from Trump to Biden Eras.

Research Aim: The election of Joe Biden as a president of the US has resulted in a drastic shift in US’s foreign image. This study aims to investigate the change in the political perspective of people from the Trump to Biden eras. This study will focus on many things, including social, political, and economic factors, to help understand the perspectives of people, and will also look into the country’s situations during these both eras.

Covid-19 Politics Research Topics

Topic 1: impacts of covid-19 on global politics.

Research Aim: This study will highlight the impacts of Coronavirus on international politics.

Topic 2: Politics during Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: This study will focus on providing a deep insight into the political agendas during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Topic 3: Indian religious politics during Coronavirus pandemic

Research Aim: The research aims to analyse how the Indian media provoked a religious conflict amid the Coronavirus pandemic and the role of the government in overcoming it.

Topic 4: The role of the UK government or any country of your choice during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Research Aim: This study will identify the contributions of government across the world in combatting COVID-19.

Politics Research Topics 2021

Topic:1: evaluating outcomes of the 2007 procurement act transparency of officers in public service of state (abc).

Research Aim: This research will explore the connection between corporate governance and business efficiency. The dynamic collection of relationships between a business and its Board of Directors, managers, owners, employees, customers, creditors is analysed through analysis processes and how effective corporate management can benefit an organisation.

Topic 2: Management intergovernmental ties on local governance in country ABC

Research Aim: This research aims to analyse corporate governance’s compatibility in the state’s local government tiers.

Topic 3: Financing problems and opportunities in the delta state (a case study of ABC local government areas)

Research Aim: this project aims to explore the challenges and opportunities in the funding of Delta State Local government accounts, cost management, and income problems of local governments.

Topic 4: The effect of corporate governance on the competitiveness of a business of corporate management

Research Aim: This study is intended to examine corporate governance compatibility at the state’s local government levels.

Topic 5: Analysis of youth service corps (NYSC) United States effective leadership and success organisational

Research Aim: The research will assess successful leadership’s influence on organizational success in Nigeria through the Kogi State Office of the National Youth Service Corps.

Topic 6: The introduction of e-governance in country ABC

Research Aim: This research aims to introduce E-governance in not only the pandemic conditions but also in the daily governance operation to ease the system of governance of Country ABC.

Dissertation Topics: Impacts of 9/11 on World Politics

The 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center are an unforgettable phenomenon in the history of politics. It contributed immensely to strengthening relationships between some countries and making bonds weaker between the others.

Dissertation topics can be based on the events related to these attacks because this discussion has always been influential and surely can provide a sound basis for your research. Some of the dissertation topics that can be extracted out of the 9/11 terrorism catastrophe are listed as follows:

• Analysis and significance of the most catastrophic event – The terrorist attacks of 9/11
• In what ways the international relations between the Middle East and the West were affected after 9/11. A critical analysis.
• Lessons learnt on political grounds after the terrorist attacks of 9/11—a debate on the positive and negative impacts.
• 9/11 and its linkages to the world of trade. Critically analyze.
• The actual events that led to the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Critical analysis.
• Development of strategies and improvements in the political system after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Review Our Best Dissertation Topics complete list.

Dissertation Topics: Problems Related to Africa

Contradictions in the policies and politics of Africa can be subjected to various dissertation topics. The researcher can find a focus point on which the dissertation can be based. Some dissertation topics related to the politics of Africa are listed below:

• Reasons for Western contradictions with African policies and politics.
• Traditional beliefs and old rituals of African nations cause their problems with other countries—analysis of the past and future trends.
• Colonial rule and political issues in Africa. Critical Analysis.
• Contributions from the rest of the world in resolving problems between African nations.
• Future trends and projections regarding the relationship of Africa with the rest of the world.
• Forces stopping the West to snatch African weapons. Critical analysis.

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China Politics Dissertation Topics

It is a known fact that China’s laws and policies are quite different from the rest of the world. Still, this fact twisted later in the 21st century when China started incorporating Western thoughts and views in technology and other areas related to economic development and increasing urbanization.

Some dissertation topics with regards to the incorporation of Western ideas into Chinese politics are listed as follows:

• Incorporation of Western ideas into the Chinese political system. Critical analysis.
• Reasons why China has opted to “open” its economy, which previously was closed in its own distinctive way. A debate on the major reasons.
• Is China a threat to Western ethics? Critical analysis.
• How is the West being affected by Chinese expeditious economic expansion? A detailed analysis.
• The impact of Chinese political principles on Western Politics. A debate on the positive and negative outcomes.
• Human rights and the complexity in the Chinese and the Western political system.

Also Read: Project Management Dissertation Topics

Relationship between the Arabs and the Israelis: Dissertation Topics

The Arabs and the Israelis have such complexity and problems in their relationship, primarily focused upon the Palestinian state. Their journey over the last sixty years also paved difficulties in relationships with other countries.

So, in this context, a researcher can find various issues to investigate in detail as a research topic. Following is the list of some of the suggestions for dissertation topics regarding this phenomenon of politics.

• Reasons behind making the recognition of the Palestinian state so complex. Discuss
• Relationship between the Arabs and the Israelis in accordance with Western politics.
• Long term rivalry between the Arabs and the Israelis. Discuss the reasons.
• Role of the West in resolving the Arab-Israeli issues. Critical analysis.
• Strategies to resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict. Critical analysis.
• Considering the events of the past how the UN can be utilized to resolve the Arab-Israeli dispute.

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“British Foreign Policy”: Dissertation Topics

The image of a country in different parts of the world is also dependent on its foreign policy and how efficiently it is maintained. There are many issues from British foreign policy that can make for an interesting topic for your politics dissertation.

• What are the basics of Britain’s foreign policy and how can it be justified. Reasons and critical analysis.
• Is Britain’s foreign policy successful? Reasons, cause and critical analysis.
• In what way Britain’s foreign policy is in close affiliation with the US. Critically analyze.
• Justifications showing the US strong impact on Britain’s foreign policy.
• Britain’s foreign policy in relation to its impact on Europe. Critically analyze.
• In what ways the creation of a “single European Entity” has influenced Britain’s foreign policy principles and goals.
• Britain’s foreign policy goals and principles are usually stern and limited. Give reasons to justify and discuss.
• Is Europe the reason behind Britain’s economic and social disputes? Discuss.

Relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan: Dissertation Topics

Pakistan and Afghanistan share so much in common based on their history, faith, and heritage. In the war against Soviet occupation, Pakistan supported 3.5 million Afghans because it shared certain interests with Afghanistan, but recently the settlement of Afghan refugees in various parts of Pakistan has been considered an undesirable phenomenon due to the increasing threat of terrorism and crime.

In Islamabad, actions are being taken to demolish the illegal Afghan settlements in response to the increasing threat of violence, crime, and terrorism. It is believed that the people involved in various illegal acts settle in these areas and carry out their violent acts from safe heavens. So, this phenomenon has a strong political basis, and certain dissertations can be based on it. Here’s a list of some of the dissertation topics in this regard:

• Strategies are being adopted to demolish the illegal Afghan resettlements in Pakistan. Critical analysis.
• Reasons for the development of hurdles between Pak-Afghan friendly relationships. Discuss.
• To what extent violence and terrorism can be linked to Afghanistan. Discuss and analyze.
• Strategies to resolve Pak-Afghan disputes. Discuss.
• Political history of Pak-Afghan relationships from 1947 till current scenario. Discuss major events and their flaws.
• Demolishing the illegal slums of Islamabad occupied by Afghan refugees. Reasons and justifications.
• “War of independence against Soviet occupation.” Discussion of the major events and the impacts.
• 9/11 terrorist attacks and the Pak-Afghan relationships till then. Discuss
• Pakhtoonistan issue and the challenges faced by Pakistan. Critical analysis.
• Educational opportunities for the Afghan refugees. Discuss the positive and negative impacts.

Politics and Media Dissertation Topics

Modern media is a powerful weapon in communicating what is happening throughout the world to people around the globe. Media has a strong influence on people perceiving different scenarios, which might actually not even be true.

There are certain politics involved in what media has to show and deliver to the people behind the screens. Depending on various external factors, media can either positively or negatively portray different scenarios and facts. Below is the list of some of the suggested dissertation topics if you would like to base your dissertation on media and politics.

• Can media be held responsible for the change in politics? Discuss.
• Politics, media and the ways they affect public opinions and thoughts.Critical analysis.
• The linkage between media and democracy. Discuss.
• Can media be held responsible for the spread of terror among people regarding various threats and crimes? Critical analysis.
• Long term politics is involved behind media impacting youth and children. Critically analyze based on justifications.
• Competition between different news channels and political support behind them. Discuss and critically analyze.
• The US politics behind various features of social media. Critical analysis.
• Politics affecting media in Indonesia. Discuss.
• TV commercials and politics. Critical analysis.
• The role media plays during elections. Discuss.
• Social media and its role in politics. Discuss
• Political debates and social media. Discuss
• Media as a carrier of perceptions. Critical analysis.
• Fundraising by different political parties and support of media.
• Politics and media as a source of exploitation of moral values. Critical analysis.
• Limitations politics impose on media. Critical analysis

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Political Parties Dissertation Topics

Political parties have always been one of the major elements of the development of politics. Any comparison between two or more parties can be worked upon by the researcher, or any other issue in this regard can be studied. Political parties of any country can be selected, and a dissertation can be based on their differences and similarities.

For instance, the two famous political parties of the UK- the Labor Party and the Conservative Party can be compared or individually studied by the researcher. The following are some interesting dissertation topics from this area of politics.

• Which party (Labour Party and the Conservative Party) is working dedicatedly? Critical analysis.
• Reasons that favour the Conservative Party in terms of its dedication towards the betterment of the country. Discuss.
• Which party is better in terms of public acceptance? Discuss
• Role of media in supporting the Labour Party and the Conservative Party. Critical analysis.
• In the future, which of the UK’s political parties will come into power, or which political parties will collapse? Discuss.

US Foreign Policy Dissertation Topics

The US is the most powerful country globally and has a considerable influence on the world’s politics. The following are some of the dissertation topics related to US foreign policy.

• With other nations, are the principles and goals of the US foreign policy justified? Discuss.
• China is developing at a rapid rate in terms of economic growth. Is there any threat to the US regarding Chinese economic development?
• The biggest threat to US foreign policy. Discuss.
• Development of nuclear power in the Middle East with US foreign policy. Discuss.
• US foreign policy aims at policing other parts of the world. Can this approach be termed as “bullying”? Critical analysis.
• Who is the mastermind and behind the control of US foreign policy? Critical analysis.
• What are the current goals of US foreign policy? Are they justified?
• How influential is US foreign policy on various other nations of the world? Discuss.
• What are the similarities and differences between the US foreign policy and the British foreign policy? Discuss and critically analyze.

Also Read: History Dissertation Topics

Politics and Religion: Dissertation Topics

Religion and politics are two separate entities, but they also impact each other, especially in today’s world. Below is a list of the topics related to politics and religion that the researcher can opt to aim his or her dissertation on:

• Religious beliefs and politics must be treated as separate entities. Discuss
• Is religion being used as a weapon on political grounds? Critical analysis
• Terrorism, politics and religion. Discuss the linkage between the three.

Important Notes:

As a student of politics looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing politics theories – i.e., to add value and interest in your research topic.

The field of politics is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering ,  construction ,  law , engineering management , healthcare , mental health , artificial intelligence , tourism , physiotherapy , sociology , management , marketing and nursing . That is why it is imperative to create a project management dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic; it is the basis of your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in writing your dissertation as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the very initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

While developing a research topic, keeping our advice in mind will allow you to pick one of the best politics dissertation topics that fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper and add to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and can also be practically implemented. Take a look at some of our sample politics dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Politics Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

• A Title Page
• Acknowledgements
• Declaration
• Abstract: A summary of the research completed
• Table of Contents
• Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems. An outline of the structure of a dissertation can also be added to this chapter.
• Literature Review : This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analyzing published and unpublished literature on the chosen research topic to address research questions . The purpose is to highlight and discuss the selected research area’s relative weaknesses and strengths while identifying any research gaps. Break down the topic and key terms can positively impact your dissertation and your tutor.
• Methodology : The data collection and analysis methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter, which usually includes research design , research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods and data analysis strategy .
• Findings and Analysis : Findings of the research are analyzed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include graphs, charts and tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
• Discussion and Conclusion : The researcher presents his interpretation of the results in this chapter and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section is establishing the link between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to the implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
• References : Make sure to complete this following your University’s requirements
• Bibliography
• Appendices : Any additional information, diagrams, and graphs used to complete the dissertation but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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How to find politics dissertation topics.

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• Study historical political movements.
• Explore international relations issues.
• Review academic journals.
• Select a topic reflecting your passion and relevance.

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A child’s behavior is affected by his or her experiences and behaviors. Language, IQ, and motor abilities are just some of the domains in which change is studied. Theories of development give different weights to experience.

Here is a list of Linguistic dissertation topics to help you choose the one studies any one as per your requirements.

Family law dissertation topics are included in a section of UK law. This topic is more of a minor category in terms of your broader research. Family law dissertations are challenging.

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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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Expert Commentary

What’s a nationally representative sample? 5 things you need to know to report accurately on research

Knowing what a nationally representative sample is — and isn't — will help you avoid errors in covering clinical trials, opinion polls and other research.

Republish this article

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License .

by Denise-Marie Ordway, The Journalist's Resource July 9, 2024

This <a target="_blank" href="https://journalistsresource.org/politics-and-government/nationally-representative-sample-research-clinical-trial/">article</a> first appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://journalistsresource.org">The Journalist's Resource</a> and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.<img src="https://journalistsresource.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/cropped-jr-favicon-150x150.png" style="width:1em;height:1em;margin-left:10px;">

Journalists can’t report accurately on research involving human subjects without knowing certain details about the sample of people researchers studied. It’s important to know, for example, whether researchers used a nationally representative sample.

That’s important whether a journalist is covering an opinion poll that asks American voters which presidential candidate they prefer, an academic article that examines absenteeism among U.S. public school students or a clinical trial of a new drug designed to treat Alzheimer’s disease.

When researchers design a study, they start by defining their target population, or the group of people they want to know more about. They then create a sample meant to represent this larger group. If researchers want to study a group of people across an entire country, they aim for a nationally representative sample — one that resembles the target population in key characteristics such as gender, age, political party affiliation and household income.

Earlier this year, when the Pew Research Center wanted to know how Americans feel about a new class of weight-loss drugs , it asked a sample of 10,133 U.S. adults questions about obesity and the effects of Ozempic, Wegovy and similar drugs. Pew designed the survey so that the answers those 10,133 people gave likely reflected the attitudes of all U.S. adults across various demographics.

If Pew researchers had simply interviewed 10,133 people they encountered at shopping malls in the southeastern U.S., their responses would not have been nationally representative. Not only would their answers reflect attitudes in just one region of the country, the individuals interviewed would not represent adults nationwide.

A nationally representative sample is one of several types of samples used in research. It’s commonly used in research that examines numerical data in public policy fields such as public health, criminal justice, education, immigration, politics and economics.

To accurately report on research, journalists must pay close attention to who is and isn’t included in research samples. Here’s why that information is critical:

1. If researchers did not use a sample designed to represent people from across the nation, it would be inaccurate to report or imply that their results apply nationwide.

A mistake journalists make when covering research is overgeneralizing the results, or reporting that the results apply to a larger group of people than they actually do. Depending on who is included in the sample, a study’s findings might only apply to the people in the sample. Many times, findings apply only to a narrow group of people at the national level who share the same characteristics as the people in the sample — for example, individuals who retired from the U.S. military after 2015 or Hispanic teenagers with food allergies.

To determine who a study is designed to represent, look at how the researchers have defined this target population, including location, demographics and other characteristics.

“Consider who that research is meant to be applicable to,” says Ameeta Retzer , a research fellow at the University of Birmingham’s Department of Applied Health Sciences.

2. When researchers use a nationally representative sample, their analyses often focus on what’s happening at a national level, on average. Because of this, it’s never safe to assume that national-level findings also apply to people at the local level.

“As a word of caution, if you’re using a nationally representative sample, you can’t say, ‘Well, that means in California …,” warns Michael Gottfried , an applied economist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education.

When researchers create a nationally representative sample of U.S. grade school students, their aim is to gain a better understanding of some aspect of the nation’s student population, Gottfried says. What they learn will represent an average across all students nationwide.

“On average, this is what kids are doing, this is how kids are doing, this is the average experience of kids in the United States,” he explains. “The conclusion has to stay at the national level. It means you cannot go back and say kids in Philadelphia are doing that. You can’t take this information and say, ‘In my city, this is happening.’ It’s probably happening in your city, but cities are all different.”

3. There’s no universally accepted standard for representativeness.

If you read a lot of research, you’ve likely noticed that what constitutes a nationally representative sample varies. Researchers investigating the spending habits of Americans aged 20 to 30 years might create a sample that represents this age group in terms of gender and race. Meanwhile, a similar study might use a sample that represents this age group across multiple dimensions — gender, race and ethnicity along with education level, household size, household income and the language spoken at home.

“In research, there’s no consensus on which characteristics we include when we think about representativeness,” Retzer notes.

Researchers determine whether their sample adequately represents the population they want to study, she says. Sometimes, researchers call a sample “nationally representative” even though it’s not all that representative.

Courtney Kennedy , vice president of methods and innovation at Pew Research Center, has questioned the accuracy of election research conducted with samples that only represent U.S. voters by age, race and sex. It’s increasingly important for opinion poll samples to also align with voters’ education levels, Kennedy writes in an August 2020 report .

“The need for battleground state polls to adjust for education was among the most important takeaways from the polling misses in 2016,” Kennedy writes, referring to the U.S. presidential election that year.

4. When studying a nationwide group of people, the representativeness of a sample is more important than its size.

Journalists often assume larger samples provide more accurate results than smaller ones. But that’s not necessarily true. Actually, what matters more when studying a population is having a sample that closely resembles it, Michaela Mora explains on the website of her research firm, Relevant Insights.

“The sheer size of a sample is not a guarantee of its ability to accurately represent a target population,” writes Mora, a market researcher and former columnist for the Dallas Business Journal. “Large unrepresentative samples can perform as badly as small unrepresentative samples.”

If a sample is representative, larger samples are more helpful than smaller ones. Larger samples allow researchers to investigate differences among sub-groups of the target population. Having a larger sample also improves the reliability of the results.

5. When creating samples for health and medical research, prioritizing certain demographic groups or failing to represent others can have long-term impacts on public health and safety.

Retzer says that too often, the people most likely to benefit from a new drug, vaccine or health intervention are not well represented in research. She notes, for example, that even though people of South Asian descent are more likely to have diabetes than people from other ethnic backgrounds, they are vastly underrepresented in research about diabetes.

“You can have the most beautiful, really lovely diabetes drug,” she says. “But if it doesn’t work for the majority of the population that needs it, how useful is it?”

Women remain underrepresented in some areas of health and medical research. It wasn’t until 1993 that the National Institutes of Health began requiring that women and racial and ethnic minorities be included in research funded by the federal agency. Before that, “it was both normal and acceptable for drugs and vaccines to be tested only on men — or to exclude women who could become pregnant,” Nature magazine points out in a May 2023 editorial .

In 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued guidance on developing plans to enroll more racial and ethnic minorities in clinical trials for all medical products.

When journalists cover research, Retzer says it’s crucial they ask researchers to explain the choices they made while creating their samples. Journalists should also ask researchers how well their nationally representative samples represent historically marginalized groups, including racial minorities, sexual minorities, people from low-income households and people who don’t speak English.

“Journalists could say, ‘This seems like a really good finding, but who is it applicable to?’” she says.

The Journalist’s Resource thanks Chase Harrison , associate director of the Harvard University Program on Survey Research, for his help with this tip sheet.  

About The Author

Denise-Marie Ordway

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why am i never asked to take a poll.

You have roughly the same chance of being polled as anyone else living in the United States. This chance, however, is only about 1 in 170,000 for a typical Pew Research Center survey. To obtain that rough estimate, we divide the current adult population of the U.S. (about 255 million) by the typical number of adults we recruit to our survey panel each year (usually around 1,500 people). We draw a random sample of addresses from the U.S. Postal Service’s master residential address file. We recruit one randomly selected adult from each of those households to join our survey panel. This process gives every non-institutionalized adult a known chance of being included. The only people who are not included are those who do not live at a residential address (e.g., adults who are incarcerated, living at a group facility like a rehabilitation center, or living in a remote area without a standard postal address).

Can I volunteer to be polled?

While we appreciate people who want to participate, we can’t base our polls on volunteers. The key to survey research is to have a  random sample so that every person has a chance of having their views captured. The kinds of people who might volunteer for our polls are likely to be very different from the average American – at the very least they would probably be more politically interested and engaged, which would not be a true representation of the general population.

Why should I participate in surveys?

Polls are a way for you to express your opinions to the nation’s leaders and the country as a whole. Public officials and other leaders pay attention to the results of polls and often take them into account in their decision-making. If certain kinds of people do not participate in the surveys, then the results won’t represent the full range of opinions in the nation.

What good are polls?

Polls seek to measure public opinion and document the experiences of the public on a range of subjects. The results provide information for academics, researchers and government officials and help to inform the decision-making process for policymakers and others. Much of what the country knows about its media usage, labor and job markets, educational performance, crime victimization and social conditions is based on data collected through polls.

Do pollsters have a code of ethics? If so, what is in the code?

The major professional organizations of survey researchers have very clear codes of ethics for their members. These codes cover the responsibilities of pollsters with respect to the treatment of respondents, their relationships with clients and their responsibilities to the public when reporting on polls.  Some good examples of a pollster’s Code of Ethics include:

American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR)

Council of American Survey Research Organizations (CASRO)

You can read Pew Research Center’s mission and code of ethics  here .

How are your polls different from market research?

One main difference is the subject matter. Market research explores opinions about products and services and measures your buying patterns, awareness of products and services or willingness to buy something. Our polls typically focus on public policy issues, mainly aimed at informing the public. We also try to measure topics like how voters are reacting to candidates in political campaigns and what issues are important to them.

Do you survey Asian Americans?

Yes. Our surveys are representative of the entire adult population of the United States and accurately account for the full population’s diversity by age, gender, race and ethnicity, region, and socioeconomic factors such as education levels, household income and employment status. We do not exclude anyone from our analyses based on his or her demographic characteristics. With the American Trends Panel, the Center release results specifically for Asian Americans in multiple reports each year.

How are people selected for your polls?

Most of our U.S. surveys are conducted on the American Trends Panel (ATP), the Center’s national survey panel of over 10,000 randomly selected U.S. adults. ATP participants are recruited offline using random sampling from the U.S. Postal Service’s residential address file. Respondents complete the surveys online using smartphones, tablets or desktop devices. We provide tablets and data plans to adults without home internet.

Do people lie to pollsters?

We know that not all survey questions are answered accurately, but it’s impossible to gauge intent and to say that any given inaccurate answer necessarily involves lying. People may simply not remember their behavior accurately.

More people say they voted in a given election than voting records indicate actually cast ballots. In some instances, researchers have actually verified the voting records of people who were interviewed and found that some of them said they voted but did not. Voting is generally considered a socially desirable behavior, like attending church or donating money to charity. Studies suggest these kinds of behaviors are overreported. Similarly, socially undesirable behaviors such as illegal drug use, certain kinds of sexual behavior or driving while intoxicated are underreported.

We take steps to minimize errors related to questions about socially desirable or undesirable activities. For example, questions about voter registration and voting usually acknowledge that not everyone takes part in elections. Pew Research Center’s voter turnout question is worded this way:

“Which of the following statements best describes you? I did not vote in the [YEAR] presidential election; I planned to vote but wasn’t able to; I definitely voted in the [YEAR] presidential election”

Do people really have opinions on all of those questions?

When we poll on a topic that may be unfamiliar, we typically start by asking how much, if anything, people have heard about it. This way we can get some insight into who knows about the subject and who does not. When we release results from the poll, we typically report just the opinions of people who say they had heard about the topic, and we also report what share of the public had not heard about the topic.

How can I tell a high-quality poll from a lower-quality one?

Two key aspects to consider are transparency and representation. Pollsters who provide clear, detailed explanations about how the poll was conducted (and by whom) tend to be more accurate than those who do not. For example, reputable pollsters will report the source from which the sample was selected, the mode(s) used for interviewing, question wording, etc. High-quality polls also have procedures to ensure that the poll represents the public, even though response rates are low, and some groups are more likely to participate in polls than others. For example, it helps to sample from a database that includes virtually all Americans (e.g., a master list of addresses or phone numbers). Also, it is critical that the poll uses a statistical adjustment (called “weighting”) to make sure that it aligns with an accurate profile of the public. For example, Pew Research Center polls adjust on variables ranging from age, sex and education to voter registration status and political party affiliation. More general guidelines on high-quality polling are available here .

How can a small sample of 1,000 (or even 10,000) accurately represent the views of 250,000,000+ Americans?

Two main statistical techniques are used to ensure that our surveys are representative of the populations they’re drawn from: random sampling and weighting. Random sampling ensures that each person has the same chance of selection to participate in a survey and that the people selected into a sample are a good mix of various demographics, such as age, race, income and education, just like in the general population. However, sample compositions can differ. For example, one sample drawn from a nationally representative list of residential addresses may have a higher percentage of rural dwellers compared with another sample drawn from the exact same list. To ensure that samples drawn ultimately resemble the population they are meant to represent, we use weighting techniques in addition to random sampling. These weighting techniques adjust for differences between respondents’ demographics in the sample and what we know them to be at population level, based on information obtained through institutions such as the U.S. Census Bureau. For more on this topic, check out our Methods 101 video on random sampling.

Do your surveys include people who are offline?

Yes. For the online ATP panel to be truly nationally representative, the share of those who do not use the internet nationally must be represented on the panel. In the past, we did this by providing identified non-internet users with paper questionnaires to complete and mail back. Now, those who don’t have internet access are provided with internet-enabled tablets to take their surveys. These tablet-provided individuals are representative of our non-internet population in the Center’s analyses.  

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12 research interview questions (with examples and answers)

Last updated

4 July 2024

Reviewed by

Dazzle the interviewing team and land the job of your dreams by coming prepared to answer the most commonly asked research interview questions.

Read our article (which includes example answers to get your brain juices flowing) to ensure you put your best foot forward for your next research interview.

• What are research interview questions?

If you have set your sights on working in research, you will have to answer research interview questions during the hiring process.

Whether you are interested in working as a research assistant or want to land an academic or industry research position in your chosen field, confidently answering research interview questions is the best way to showcase your skills and land the job.

Designed to be open-ended, research interview questions give your interviewer a chance to:

Get a better understanding of your research experience

Explore your areas of research expertise

Determine if you and your research are a good fit for their needs

Assess if they have the required resources for you to conduct your research effectively

• 12 research interview questions (with answers)

If you want to crush an upcoming interview for a research position, practicing your answers to commonly asked questions is a great place to start.

Read our list of research interview questions and answers to help get into the pre-interview zone (and, hopefully, ensure you land that position!)

• General research questions

General research questions are typically asked at the start of the interview to give the interviewer a sense of your work, personality, experience, and career goals. 

They offer a great opportunity to introduce yourself and your skills before you deep-dive into your specific area of expertise.

What is your area of research expertise?

Interviewers will ask this common kickoff question to learn more about you and your interests and experience. Besides providing the needed information, you can use this question to highlight your unique skills at the beginning of your interview to set the tone.

Example answer

“My research focuses on the interaction between social media use and teenager mental well-being. I’ve conducted [X number] studies which have been published in [X publications]. I love studying this topic because not only is it a pressing modern issue, it also serves a commonly overlooked population that requires and deserves additional attention and support.”

Why are you interested in [X research topic]?

Another icebreaker, this question allows you to provide some context and backstory into your passion for research.

“After completing my undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering, I had the opportunity to work with my current mentor on their research project. After we conducted the first experiment, I had a million other questions I wanted to explore—and I was hooked. From there, I was fortunate enough to be taken on as an assistant by my mentor, and they have helped me home in on my specific research topic over the past [X years].”

What are your favorite and least favorite aspects of research?

Playing off the classic “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?” interview question, this research-specific option often appears in these types of interviews.

This can be a tricky question to answer well. The best way to approach this type of question is to be honest but constructive. This is your opportunity to come across as genuine as you talk about aspects of research that challenge you—because no one wants to hear you like everything about your work!

“My favorite part of research is speaking directly to people in our target demographic to hear about their stories and experiences. My least favorite part is the struggle to secure grants to support my work—though now I have done that process a few times, it is less daunting than when I started.”

• In-depth interview questions about your research

Once the interviewer has a basic understanding of you, they will transition into asking more in-depth questions about your work.

Regardless of your level of experience, this is the portion of the interview where you can dazzle your potential employer with your knowledge of your industry and research topic to highlight your value as a potential employee.

Where has your work been published?

As this is a straightforward question, make sure you have to hand every place your work has been published. If your work is yet to be published, mention potential future publications and any other academic writing you have worked on throughout your career.

“My research has been published in [X number of publications]. If you want to read my published work, I am happy to share the publication links or print you a copy.”

Tell us about your research process

Getting into the meat and potatoes of your work, this question is the perfect opportunity to share your working process while setting clear expectations for the support you will need.

Research is a collaborative process between team members and your employer, so being clear about how you prefer to work (while acknowledging you will need to make compromises to adjust to existing processes) will help you stand out from other candidates.

“Historically, I have worked alongside a team of researchers to devise and conduct my research projects. Once we determine the topic and gather the needed resources, I strive to be collaborative and open as we design the study parameters and negotiate the flow of our work. I enjoy analyzing data, so in most cases, I take the lead on that portion of the project, but I am happy to jump in and support the team with other aspects of the project as well.”

What sources do you use to collect your research data?

Depending on the type of research you conduct, this question allows you to deep-dive into the specifics of your data-collection process. Use this question to explain how you ensure you are collecting the right data, including selecting study participants, filtering peer-reviewed papers to analyze, etc.

“Because my research involves collecting qualitative data from volunteers, I use strict criteria to ensure the people I interview are within our target demographic. During the interview, which I like doing virtually for convenience, I use [X software] to create transcripts and pool data to make the analysis process less time-consuming.”

• Leadership research questions

Many research positions require employees to take on leadership responsibilities as they progress throughout their careers.

If this is the case for your job position, have strong answers prepared to the following questions to showcase your leadership and conflict-management skills.

Are you interested in becoming a research leader or manager?

Many research positions are looking for people with leadership potential to take on more responsibility as they grow throughout their careers. If you are interested in pursuing research leadership, use this question to highlight your leadership qualities.

“While I currently do not have much research leadership experience, I have worked with so many lovely mentors, and I would love the opportunity to fulfill that role for the next generation of academics. Because I am quite organized and attuned to the challenges of research, I would love the opportunity to take on leadership responsibilities over time.”

How do you handle workplace conflicts within a research team?

Workplace conflict is always present when working with a team, so it is a common topic for research interview questions.

Despite being tricky to navigate, this type of question allows you to show you are a team player and that you know how to handle periods of interpersonal stress. 

“When I'm directly involved in a disagreement with my team members, I do my best to voice my opinion while remaining respectful. I am trained in de-escalation techniques, so I use those skills to prevent the argument from getting too heated. If I am a bystander to an argument, I try to help other team members feel heard and valued while disengaging any big emotions from the conversation.”

How would you support and motivate a struggling researcher on your team?

Research is a team effort. Employers are looking for people who can work well in teams as a priority when hiring. Describing your ability to support and encourage your team members is essential for crushing your research interview.

“Working in research is hard—so I have had my fair share of offering and receiving support. When I have noticed someone is struggling, I do my best to offset their workload (provided I have the space to assist). Also, because I pride myself on being a friendly and approachable person, I do my best to provide a safe, open space for my team members if they want to talk or vent about any issues.”

• Future-oriented research questions

As the interview comes to a close, your interviewer may ask you about your aspirations in academia and research.

To seal the deal and leave a positive impression, these types of questions are the perfect opportunity to remind your interviewer about your skills, knowledge base, and passion for your work and future in research.

What other areas of research are you interested in exploring?

Many hiring research positions may require their researchers to be open to exploring alternative research topics. If this applies to your position, coming prepared with adjacent topics to your current studies can help you stand out.

“While my primary interests are with my area of study, I also am interested in exploring [X additional topics] related to my current work.”

Where do you see your research in 5, 10, or 20 years?

Your employer wants to see you are interested in and invested in growing your research career with them. To scope out your aspirations (and to show you are a good match for their needs), they may ask you to detail your future career goals.

“In five years, I would love to have at least two more published projects, particularly in [X publication]. Past that, as I mature in my research career, I hope to take on more leadership roles in the next 10 to 20 years, including running my own lab or being invited to speak at conferences in my chosen field.”

In an ideal world, what would your perfect research job look like?

As a fun hypothetical question, the “ideal world” inquiry allows you to get creative and specific about your wishes and aspirations. If you get asked this question, do your best not to limit yourself. Be specific about what you want; you never know, some of your wishes may already be possible to fulfill!

“In an ideal world, I would love to be the lead of my own research team. We would have our own working space, access to [X specific research tool] to conduct our research, and would be able to attend conferences within our field as keynote speakers.”

• Get ready to ace your next research interview

Now you’re ready to dazzle your interviewers and land the research job of your dreams. Prepare strong and competent answers after reading this article on the most common research interview questions.

Arriving prepared for your interview is a great way to reduce stress, but remember: Showcasing yourself and your passion for your research is the number one way to stand out from the other applicants and get the job.

Best of luck. You’ve got this!

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