Which is NOT a sub-field of government?

Analyze the question: You are asked to find the option that is NOT a sub-field of Government (Political Science) as a discipline.

Explain the concept: Government, as a field of study, is usually divided into these main areas:

• Political theory/philosophy: ideas such as democracy, justice, liberty, and the state
• Comparative government/politics: comparing political systems
• Public administration: how government policies are carried out by the civil service and other agencies
• International relations: relations between states, diplomacy, and international organisations
• Local government: administration at the grassroots level
• Political economy/public policy

Step-by-step solution:

1. International relations: This is a recognised sub-field because it covers how states interact. ✔
2. Local government: This is part of government and public administration studies. ✔
3. Political theory: This is the foundation of political science. ✔
4. Population education: This deals with population studies, such as birth rates, family size, and migration. It belongs to Social Studies, Demography, or Education, not to Government. ✘
5. Public administration: This is a core sub-field. ✔

Answer: The option that is NOT a sub-field of government is D. population education.

Exam tip: In "which is NOT" questions, first eliminate the options you know clearly belong. Words like political, public, international, and local point to government, while population points to demography or social studies.