Political science is a social science discipline that focuses on the study of political systems, institutions, behavior, and processes. It involves analyzing the ways in which power is exercised and shared, and the impact of government policies on society. Political scientists use a variety of research methods, including quantitative and qualitative analysis, to explore topics such as elections, public opinion, international relations, and public policy. The genre of political science writing includes scholarly articles, books, and reports that aim to contribute to our understanding of politics and governance. These works may be theoretical or empirical, and may draw on a range of disciplinary perspectives, including economics, sociology, psychology, and history. Political science writing may also be normative, offering recommendations for policy or advocating for particular political values or goals.