Research Design in Political Science

(Hardback)

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Description

This is a comprehensive introduction to research design for university students at all levels across the whole range of political science, including international relations and public administration. It covers the key steps in the research process and explains the logic and detail of a variety of classic and cutting-edge methods. Based on a pluralistic approach, the text endorses both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, and outlines the strengths and limitations of different designs for addressing particular research goals. Giving accessible and practical advice, without use of mathematical formulas or formalized notation, this clear and engaging book features many examples of real political science research, and will enable readers to design their own research projects as well as to critically evaluate existing research in the social sciences.

Reviews

'This is the best and most comprehensive text on research design in political science. It is highly accessible without being superficial, and will quickly take students from the basics to a serious understanding of research design issues' - Frank Schimmelfennig, ETH Zurich University, Switzerland. 'This superbly executed and truly comprehensive guide to research design will provide students with a thorough understanding of the larger research process, from the conceiving of research questions to the presenting of research results.' - David Lowery, Pennsylvania State University, USA. 'An excellent treatment of research design that combines considerable depth with breadth in its coverage of methodological debate. It will be a first-rate textbook for students and an important source for seasoned scholars.' - Markus Haverland, Erasmus University Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Author Bio

Dimiter Toshkov is Associate Professor of Public Administration at Leiden University, the Netherlands.