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.
Sampling
Sampling
The world of politics and international relations is vast, made up of many countries, organizations and societies, and it is often the case that it is physically impossible to research every individual member (in terms of time, cost and access). Therefore, much political research relies on the sampling of research populations – we study some cases in order to make generalizations about the group as a whole. In relation to measuring public opinion, sampling theory tells us that a carefully selected sample of 1000 people will give a very good indication of the views of the population. As Fielding and Gilbert (2000: 226) state, ‘It is quite rare for it to be sensible to conduct a census, that is, to obtain data from everyone ...
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