Compgov Intro to Comparative Politics

Comparative politics

The study of similarities and differences between states, how different government systems operate, and why political changes occur

Comparative method

Examining the same phenomenon in several cases and reaching conclusions

Causation

When a change in one variable precipitates a change in another variable

Correlation

An apparent connection between variables

Empirical statement

An assertion of fact that can be proven

Normative statement

A value judgment, usually in the form of a “should” or “ought” statement

Quantitative data

Observations made using statistical techniques, which are often conveyed in charts, graphs, tables, and maps

Qualitative data

Text-based descriptions, including explanations of how government and political institutions function

Source analysis

Reading and analyzing text

Human development index (HDI)

An aggregate measure of life expectancy, education, and per capita income

Gross domestic product (GDP)

The total value of goods and services produced in a country in a year

GDP per capita

Gross domestic product divided by population

GDP growth rate

The percentage of GDP growth over a period of time

Gini index

A measure of income inequality within a country

Freedom house

A nongovernmental organization that advocates for democracy and human rights and measures freedom around the world

Democratic consolidation

The process by which a regime has developed stable democratic institutions and significant protections of civil liberties and is unlikely to revert to authoritarianism

Corruption

The abuse of official power for personal gain

Corruption perception index

A measure of how corrupt a system is believed to be

Strong state

A state that is capable of providing necessary government services to its citizens

Failed/fragile state

A state that has lost control over all or part of its territory

Fragile states index

A measure of state strength, highlighting concerns about fragile and failed states