The normative approach in Political Science focuses on what ought to be rather than what is. It is concerned with values, ethics, ideals, and prescriptions for a good society and just political order. Unlike empirical approaches that seek to describe and explain political phenomena objectively, the normative approach engages in moral and philosophical reasoning to evaluate political systems, policies, and actions against certain standards of justice, freedom, equality, and legitimacy.

Historically, this approach has deep roots in political thought, from Plato's Republic envisioning an ideal state to Aristotle's classification of constitutions based on their ethical goals. Modern normative theorists, such as John Rawls, Robert Nozick, and Jürgen Habermas, continue to grapple with fundamental questions about rights, justice, and the distribution of power and resources. They employ conceptual analysis, logical argumentation, and ethical frameworks to construct theories that guide political action and institutional design. While sometimes criticized for being subjective or utopian, the normative approach remains crucial for providing a moral compass for political inquiry and for inspiring movements for social and political change.