I wouldn't lump poli sci in with the humanities guys. Poli sci PhDs get to go on TV and advise politicians and write in newspapers and conduct the type of research that a layman can appreciate in many cases. Therefore, the perceived utility and practicality of the degree is higher than for humanities degrees. I mean, when is the last time a CNN or msnbc producer said, "quick, we need an ancient greek literature expert for the program." I think all of this in combination leads to greater overall respect to poli sci PhDs in general, relative to their humanities counter-parts. Now, I'm not saying the humanities are bad or that media ubiquity is the best measure of utility; I'm just saying the perception is that poli sci is probably held in a little higher regard both among the public and even among some academics