Political Science

What makes a government legitimate in the eyes of its citizens? How do power structures form and endure within societies? Why do people obey laws even when enforcement is minimal? What distinguishes authority based on tradition, charisma, or legal rules? Which political figure do you think wielded power most effectively, and why?

What conditions are necessary for a healthy democracy? How do different electoral systems shape political outcomes? What factors influence voter turnout and political engagement? How can democratic institutions resist corruption and authoritarian drift? What event shaped your own views on democracy?

How do policymakers balance expert advice, public opinion, and political pressure? What makes some public policies succeed while others fail? How can governments measure whether a policy is working? Why do long-term problems often receive short-term political solutions? What policy issue do you believe deserves more attention?

What factors lead nations into cooperation or conflict? How do alliances, treaties, and global institutions help prevent war? Why do small regional disputes sometimes escalate internationally? How do economic sanctions influence state behavior? What international event has shaped your outlook on global politics?

Why do people gravitate toward certain political identities or ideologies? How do beliefs about freedom, equality, and authority shape political attitudes? What role does political identity play in social belonging? Why do political echo chambers form, and how can they be broken? Which political value is most important to you personally?

How do news outlets and social media influence political beliefs? What strategies do governments or interest groups use to shape public opinion? How can misinformation spread quickly even when facts are available? What responsibility do media organizations have in democratic societies? Which piece of political messaging has stuck with you, and why?