Relationship between Law and Political Science

TANMOY MUKHERJEE INSTITUTE OF JURIDICAL SCIENCE

Dr. Tanmoy Mukherjee

Advocate

 

Relationship between Law and Political Science

 

Tanmoy Mukherjee

Advocate

Law and Political Science are closely interrelated social sciences. Both deal with the state, government, authority, and regulation of human conduct. One cannot be properly understood without the other.

 

 Common Subject Matter – The State

Both Law and Political Science study the state:

-Political Science studies the origin, nature, functions, and forms of the state.

-Law studies the rules and regulations made and enforced by the state.

Thus, law is the command of the state, while Political Science explains how that command is formed and exercised.

 

Law as an Instrument of Political Power

Political decisions are implemented through law:

-Policies framed by the government acquire binding force only when converted into law.

-Political Science studies policy-making, while Law ensures its execution and enforcement.

Example: Social welfare schemes become effective only after legislative enactment.

 

Constitution – A Meeting Point

The Constitution is the strongest link between the two:

-Political Science studies the structure of government laid down in the Constitution.

-Law studies the legal supremacy and interpretation of the Constitution.

Example: The Indian Constitution defines organs of government and fundamental rights, which are both political and legal in nature.

 

Rights and Duties

-Political Science explains the philosophy and evolution of rights and duties.

-Law gives them legal recognition and enforceability.

Without law, rights remain moral claims; without politics, law lacks direction.

 

Law Depends on Political Ideology

The nature of law reflects the political system:

In a democracy → laws protect liberty and equality.

In a dictatorship → laws often support absolute authority.

Thus, law is shaped by political ideology.

 

Law Regulates Political Processes

Law regulates:

→Elections

→Political parties

→Legislative procedures

Political activities operate within the framework of law.

 

Differences but Complementary

Law	Political Science
Normative and prescriptive	Descriptive and analytical
Focuses on rules	Focuses on power and authority
Concerned with enforcement	Concerned with policy and governance

 

Despite differences, they complement each other.

 

Law and Political Science are inseparable disciplines. Political Science provides the theoretical foundation of the state and power, while Law gives practical shape to political authority. Together, they ensure order, justice, and good governance in society.