Research Methods Guide for Political Science

Author: (American) Stephen Van Evera
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-05-01
Features: This book provides a common-sense introduction to qualitative research methods in the social sciences, suitable for graduate and undergraduate students and their advisors in political science, sociology, anthropology, economics, and history. How should theories in the social sciences be constructed, evaluated, and applied? "I do not agree with the statement that hard sciences and social sciences differ in the fundamental principles of scientific research methods. Science is science." The case selection section demonstrates specialized tricks to beginners. Van Evera believes that people's definition of doctoral dissertations is usually too narrow. "Creating and testing theories are not the only forms. If everyone only creates and tests theories and no one applies theories, then what is the point of creating and testing theories?" In the chapter "Methodological Tips for Political Science Doctoral Dissertations," Van Evera discusses thesis presentations and other broad academic strategies and tactics. Van Evera raises the question of how political scientists should work within an academic community. "All institutions and professions that lack clear obligations must have an inherent moral code to define their responsibilities, ensuring they stay on the right course."