CSS Exams: 5 Movies to Watch for Political Science Preparation
Political Science is a vital and diverse academic discipline that examines the various systems, processes, and theories of politics, power, and government. It encompasses multiple subfields, such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration. As a subject in the CSS exams, Political Science evaluates the candidate’s understanding of political institutions, governance, and decision-making processes at both national and international levels. It also covers the critical political events, ideologies, and policies that have shaped the world’s political landscape.
The subject requires the candidate to have a solid grasp of concepts, analytical skills, and critical thinking abilities to perform well in the examination. In this article, I will inform you about 5 movies that you should watch before you prepare for political science. Let’s start here:
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1. The West Wing (TV Series, 1999-2006)
“The West Wing” is a political drama television series that aired from 1999 to 2006. The show depicts the daily workings of the White House staff, led by fictional President Josiah “Jed” Bartlet. The show explores various political issues, including foreign policy, education, and healthcare, among others.
“The West Wing” provides insight into the inner workings of the executive branch of the U.S. government and the role of the President and his staff in policymaking. It portrays the complexity of the policymaking process, the importance of compromise, and the impact of public opinion on decision-making.
The show also depicts the interplay between the President’s staff, Congress, the media, and interest groups in shaping policy. It highlights the importance of communication and negotiation in politics and the role of leadership in bringing about change. Click here to watch this series.
2. All the President’s Men (1976)
“All the President’s Men” is a political drama film released in 1976. The movie follows the investigative journalism work of these two reporters from the Washington Post, as they uncover the Watergate scandal, which eventually led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon. The film portrays the importance of a free press and the role of journalism in holding those in power accountable for their actions. It also highlights the significance of checks and balances in a democracy and the role of various branches of government in maintaining them.
The movie showcases the intricacies and complexities of political corruption, secrecy, and power, as well as the courage and dedication of journalists who were committed to exposing the truth. You must watch this movie here.
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3. Lincoln (2012)
“Lincoln” is a biographical drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 2012. The movie depicts the final months of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency, during which he worked to pass the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery.
The movie portrays Lincoln’s leadership skills, his political maneuvering, and his unwavering commitment to ending slavery. It provides insight into the legislative process, the role of compromise, and the challenges of passing significant legislation.
“Lincoln” also explores the political climate of the time, including the opposition from within his own party, the Democratic Party, and the Confederacy. It highlights the political pressure Lincoln faced and his skillful use of political strategies to gain support for his agenda. The film portrays Lincoln as a political leader who was not afraid to take risks and make difficult decisions for the greater good. It also highlights the importance of leadership, communication, and negotiation in the political process. Click here to watch this movie for free.
4. The Ides of March (2011)
“The Ides of March” is a political drama film released in 2011. The movie depicts a fictional presidential primary campaign, in which a young and idealistic campaign staffer, played by Ryan Gosling, becomes disillusioned with the political process and the people he once admired.
The film portrays the cutthroat world of political campaigns, the role of money and media in politics, and the ethical dilemmas that political operatives face. It explores the complexities of loyalty, trust, and betrayal in the political process.
“The Ides of March” also depicts the importance of strategy, messaging, and image in political campaigns, as well as the influence of interest groups and lobbyists in the political process. It highlights the role of the media in shaping public opinion and the power dynamics between politicians and their staff. Click here to watch this movie.
5. Wag the Dog (1997)
“Wag the Dog” is a political satire film directed by Barry Levinson and released in 1997. The movie depicts a political spin doctor, played by Robert De Niro, who works with a Hollywood producer, played by Dustin Hoffman, to create a fake war in Albania to distract the public’s attention from a political scandal involving the President.
The film portrays the power of the media in shaping public opinion and the manipulation of the news by politicians and their staff. It highlights the use of propaganda and the creation of a manufactured reality to control public perception.
“Wag the Dog” also explores the concept of political distraction, the diversion of public attention away from a crisis or scandal by creating a new issue. It examines the ethics of using deception and manipulation in politics and the role of the media in exposing or perpetuating political scandals.
The movie provides a critical examination of the political system and the use of media and public relations to influence the public’s perception of reality. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of manufacturing consent and the importance of maintaining a free and independent press.
Click here to watch this movie.
