discuss the fact value dichotomy under political science, is political science really a science

The fact-value dichotomy is a fundamental debate in the field of political science. This dichotomy refers to the separation between objective facts (things that can be empirically observed and measured) and subjective values (things that are matters of personal or societal preference).

1. Fact-Value Dichotomy: In political science, facts are objective realities that can be empirically observed and measured. For example, the number of people who voted in a particular election is a fact. On the other hand, values are subjective and are influenced by personal or societal preferences. For example, the belief that democracy is the best form of government is a value. The fact-value dichotomy suggests that these two aspects should be kept separate in political analysis.

2. Political Science as a Science: The debate about whether political science is a "science" revolves around the question of whether it can be objective and empirical, like the natural sciences. Those who argue that political science is a science point to the use of rigorous methodologies, statistical analysis, and the testing of hypotheses. They argue that, like natural scientists, political scientists observe, describe, and explain phenomena.

3. Critiques of the Fact-Value Dichotomy: Some critics argue that the fact-value dichotomy is false and that facts and values cannot be completely separated. They argue that all facts are influenced by values to some extent. For example, the decision to measure voter turnout as a percentage of the eligible population, rather than the total population, reflects a value judgment about who should be considered a potential voter.

4. Conclusion: The fact-value dichotomy and the question of whether political science is a science are ongoing debates in the field. While political science may not be a science in the same way that physics or chemistry is, it does strive for objectivity and uses scientific methods to study political phenomena. However, the influence of values on the selection and interpretation of facts is an important consideration.