Summary
Contents
Subject index
This book is designed for students of Politics and International Relations at both undergraduate and postgraduate level. It provides explanations of fifty core concepts in political research methods and, uniquely, explains how these methods can be used in International Relations. Where relevant, alternative research concepts and strategies are suggested. Each ‘concept’ will incorporate a simple definition, a focused explanation, an examination of key debates and areas of research, along with cross-references to other related concepts. This format allows students and researchers alike to utilise the text either as a companion to specific modules, or on a ‘dip into’ basis. Key Features: - Provides an overview of the place of each concept in Politics and International Relations under the headings: meaning, origins and current usage. - Concepts are grouped into sections corresponding to the main themes usually covered in teaching. - Relevant concepts in the book are emboldened and linked by listing at the end of each concept - Guidance is provided to further reading on each of the concepts discussed.
Deduction/Induction
Deduction/Induction
The process of generalizing from what we have observed to what we have not or cannot observe is called induction. It forms the basis of scientific theory… Deductive reasoning moves from abstract statements about general relationships to concrete statements about specific behaviors. (Manheim et al., 2008: 19–20)
There are two approaches we can take towards conducting research. We can start with a research hypothesis – for example, ‘policies that reduce the national deficit will influence voting behaviour at the next General Election’. To address such a statement, we would gather evidence (such as opinion poll trends, political party documents, political speeches) in order to support or refute the hypothesis. This is a process of deduction (much like Sherlock Holmes or Miss Marple would use ...
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