By: Shahid Farooq
When it comes to choosing an academic path, there are countless options available, each with its own allure and potential for personal and professional growth. Some individuals are moved to the intricacies of the natural world, while others find their passion in understanding and shaping the complex dynamics and nuances of human society. Many students despite having a very little or no interest in studying natural science opt it out of the family compulsion, many a times when a person is made to work or do things against this interest, he/she either fails or is unable to achieve satisfaction in life.
In our society many students are forced to take the medical stream after Board Exams by their parents, only to satisfy their ego without considering the preference of their wards.
After qualifying my board examinations, my family suggested me to pursue natural science as per the societal norms. Honestly saying, I was also thinking on the same lines but I changed my decision and decided to opt for social science to form my career. I had deep interest in studying political science. One of the primary reasons for choosing Political Science over Natural Science is my deep fascination with human behaviour and societal dynamics.
Political Science offers a rich understanding of the complexities surrounding power, governance and decision-making. Exploring how societies function, studying political ideologies and analysing the behaviour of individuals within political systems can provide invaluable insights into human nature and the mechanisms that drive our collective actions.
I observed that the youth are either over fascinated or have been forced by the societal norms to choose natural sciences. This has created intellectual deficit in social science in our part of the world and I feel that such a trend is very detrimental for the society. I was moved to choose political science because I wanted to contribute something to the existing scholarship of political science.
I think political science offers a direct path to understanding and influencing political processes for those who aspire to make a tangible difference in society. By studying political systems, public policies and international relations, individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to engage with the world’s most pressing challenges. Political Science equips students with the tools to advocate for change, shape public opinion and participate in the democratic process, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society.
The subject is an interdisciplinary field, drawing upon insights from sociology, psychology, history, economics, and other social sciences. This multidisciplinary approach allows students to develop a holistic understanding of the intricate relationships between political, economic and social factors. It infuses and encourages critical thinking, analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex issues—a valuable asset in a rapidly changing and interconnected world.
Contrary to popular belief, a degree in Political Science opens up a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue paths in government and public administration, international organizations, diplomacy, law, journalism, advocacy, research, academia, and even the private sector. The skills acquired through the study of Political Science—such as critical analysis, research, and communication—are highly transferable and in demand across various professional domains.
Politics and governance are constantly evolving, shaped by both internal and external forces. Studying Political Science offers an opportunity to engage with current events, analyze emerging trends, and adapt to the ever-changing political landscape. This field of study is never stagnant, ensuring that students are always intellectually challenged and encouraged to think critically about the complexities of the world around them.
Every student should choose a subject of his/her own choice without any compulsion from any side. There is a world of possibilities outside the natural sciences. While natural sciences provides invaluable insights into the physical world, Political Sciences, on the other hand, explore intricate workings of human society. By choosing this path, individuals embark on a journey that equips them with the tools to shape policies, advocate for change, and contribute to the betterment of society.
The author is studying Political Science at Cluster University Srinagar.
