ABSTRACT
Political science is the systematic study of power in society. Most political scientists would agree that power is desired so that its wielders can acquire what evolutionary history has made enjoyable, namely, influence, wealth, security, and the good regard of others (especially status and affection). For political scientists, public policy is the means by which government is used by those with influence in government to help themselves and others to acquire those things. Darwinists recognize that the pursuit of influence, wealth, security, and status is a proximate cause. The ultimate motivation of people’s behavior, however, draws on deeper, evolutionary forces.
