Should political science be capitalized? This question may seem trivial at first glance, but it raises important considerations about the proper usage of capitalization in academic writing. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind capitalizing or not capitalizing the term “political science” and provide guidance on the best practices for academic writers.
The debate over capitalizing “political science” stems from the different ways in which the term is used. When used as a subject or field of study, “political science” is typically capitalized. For example, “I am majoring in Political Science at the university.” In this context, the term is treated as a proper noun, indicating a specific discipline.
However, when “political science” is used as a verb or in a more general sense, it is often not capitalized. For instance, “We need to study political science to understand the complexities of global politics.” In this case, the term is used to describe an activity or process, rather than referring to the discipline itself.
The choice of capitalization can also depend on the style guide being followed. For example, the Modern Language Association (MLA) style guide recommends capitalizing “political science” when it is used as a subject or field of study. On the other hand, the American Psychological Association (APA) style guide does not require capitalization in this context.
One argument for capitalizing “political science” is that it emphasizes the discipline’s importance and distinctiveness. By treating it as a proper noun, we acknowledge its unique role in the academic landscape. Moreover, capitalizing the term can help to distinguish it from other fields, such as “social science” or “natural science.”
Conversely, some argue that capitalizing “political science” can be unnecessarily restrictive and may imply a hierarchy among academic disciplines. They suggest that using lowercase letters can promote a more inclusive and egalitarian approach to academic writing.
In conclusion, whether or not to capitalize “political science” depends on the context in which it is used and the style guide being followed. When used as a subject or field of study, capitalization is generally recommended. However, when the term is used in a more general sense or as a verb, lowercase letters may be more appropriate. Academic writers should be aware of these nuances and choose the style that best suits their intended meaning and audience.
