Political Science Analysis Methods

Social Construction of Reality

• Political reality is complex and subjective
• Researchers must be aware of how their own values and beliefs shape their understanding
• Different methods of political science analysis exist and aim to understand political phenomena

Quantitative Approaches

• Utilize numerical data and statistical analysis to explain political phenomena
• Employ surveys, direct observations, and coding data into numerical forms
• Aim for objectivity and generalizability

Inferential Statistics

• Used to make inferences about a population based on a sample of data.
• This approach uses probability to determine the likelihood that findings from a sample are representative of the population.

Mechanical Systems (Most Different Systems Design)

• A research method that compares different cases that share a similar outcome.
• The goal is to determine which factors are most likely to be causal by eliminating extraneous factors.
• Example: This method could be used to examine different countries that have experienced revolutions, in order to identify the common factors that led to these revolutions.

Important Terms

• Constructivism: Political reality is socially constructed, meaning it is shaped by the interactions and interpretations of individuals and groups
• Reflexivity: Researchers should critically examine their own biases and assumptions to ensure that their research is not influenced by their own personal beliefs
• Axiological Neutrality: The ability to maintain a neutral stance, free from subjective biases, throughout the research process
• Quantitative Approach: Research that involves collecting and analyzing numerical data, often using statistical techniques
• Inferential Statistics: A method that extends conclusions from a sample to a larger population
• Mechanical Systems Design (MDSD): A research design that uses the method of difference to isolate critical factors by comparing cases with similar outcomes but different characteristics.

This quiz explores various methods of political science analysis, focusing on the social construction of reality, quantitative approaches, and inferential statistics. Understanding how researchers’ values influence their interpretations and the use of statistical tools to analyze data is essential for grasping the complexities of political phenomena.