Political science research methods

Comprehensive methods text provides readers with the ideal gateway to understanding both the 'how' and the 'why' behind research into politics. Understand the "how" and the "why" behind research in political science. Step by step, Political Science Research Methods walks students through the logic of research design, carefully explaining how researchers choose which method to employ. The Eighth Edition of this trusted resource offers a greater emphasis on the ways in which particular methods are used by undergraduates, expanded coverage of the role of the Internet in research and analysis, and more international examples. New to this edition: Streamlined content that delivers greater clarity of concepts and a tighter focus on what matters most Learning objectives encourage close, focused reading and measurable takeaways New and updated examples of research serve as touchstones throughout the book and demonstrate a greater variety of data collection methods: Greater emphasis on how particular research methods are used by undergraduate students Expanded coverage of the role of the Internet in research and analysis A brand new annotated research article in Chapter 15

Previous edition: 2012

Chapter 1: Introduction Research on Inequality Who Votes; Who Doesn't? Politics and the Gender Gap Repression of Human Rights A Look into Judicial Decision Making and Its Effects Influencing Bureaucracies Effects of Campaign Advertising on Voters Research on Public Support for US Foreign Involvement Conclusion Terms Introduced Notes Chapter 2: The Empirical Approach to Political Science Elements of Empiricism The Importance of Theory A Brief Overview of the Empirical Research Process Reactions to the Empirical Approach: Practical Objections Competing Points of View Conclusion Terms Introduced Suggested Readings Notes Chapter 3: Beginning the Research Process: Identifying a Research Topic, Developing Research Questions,