Research Designs for Political Science: Contrivance and Demonstration in Theory and Practice

Research design in political science has become too technical, mechanical, and uninvolved, argues David A. Bositis as he explains the need for an alternative design regimen that provides the means for real engagement in empirical research.

Bositis’ view offers a theoretical, imaginative, manipulative, and engaging alternative approach to political science research. His text is divided into three main parts. Part 1, "Epistemological Issues in the Design of Research," introduces the work’s themes and context. Included in this discussion are research design as persuasive strategy, a critique of survey research, and a theory of contrivance and demonstration in design. In part 2, "Contrivance and Demonstration in Practice," Bositis examines the practice of design in political science, first through a discussion of the history of experimentation and then through an examination of both an integrated design and participant observation approach. Part 3 "The Politics of Research Design," offers an analysis of the politics and ethics that inform design choices.

An extensive bibliography of nearly 400 entries is one of the most complete listings of experiments in political science to be found anywhere.

David A. Bositis is Assistant Professor of Political Science at State University of New York College at Potsdam and coauthor with Denise L. Baer of Elite Cadres and Party Coalitions: Representing the Public in Party Politics.