Limitations of Behavioral Analysis in Political Science

The capacity of one individual (A) to influence the actions of another (B) to do something they would not ordinarily do.

A methodology in political science focusing on observable behavior and empirical data to study political phenomena. This approach emphasizes measuring and analyzing concrete actions, rather than abstract theories or ideologies.

A political theory that emphasizes the distribution of power among multiple groups, rather than a single dominant force. In this model, various groups compete for influence and power, and no single group holds absolute control.

A critique of behavioral analysis, arguing that it often overlooks or underestimates the influence of broader societal changes and cultural shifts on political behavior. These changes often occur outside the narrow scope of traditional political analysis.

Robert Dahl argued that to understand where power lies in a political system, one must examine the outcomes of political decisions. The group or groups that consistently achieve their desired outcomes in decision-making processes are seen as holding the power.

Robert Dahl's seminal work "Who Governs? Democracy and Power in the American City" (1961) used behavioral analysis to study power dynamics in the city of New Haven, Connecticut.

Dahl's research on New Haven revealed a dispersed pattern of power, with no single group dominating political decision-making. This finding supported the pluralist understanding of power, emphasizing the distribution of influence among various groups.

The ability to influence the outcome of political decisions. This is a key concept in the study of power and political analysis, as it focuses on the practical and tangible effects of power.