Celebrating 40 Years: The State of Political Science in South Africa in 2014

Abstract

The last state of the discipline survey was done 15 years ago. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of Politikon the authors take stock of the transformation of the discipline since 1994 to show how changes in the tertiary education sector have influenced Political Science. Results of a survey of the discipline, which includes academic modules offered in Political Science and International Relations, as well as ratings of academic departments and individual scholars are analysed to show the significant changes that have occurred since the last survey. New and a greater variety of modules are offered, research outputs have increased, as have the numbers of students. On the whole, Political Science scholars are more positive about the discipline than 15 years ago. We conclude by arguing that policy relevance remains an issue and that there is a need for a greater African focus.