POL243: Waltz - Theory of International Politics, Ch 1.pdf

When is a law absolute?

A law is absolute when the relation between the variables is invariant (always holds).

When is a law probabilistic?

When the relation between variables is highly constant but not invariant; expressed as "If a, then b with probability x.

Why is repetition important in establishing a law?

Because the relationship must be found repeatedly to give us confidence that if we observe a again, we should expect b with a given probability.

How do "law-like" statements differ in the social sciences?

They imply less necessity than natural science laws (e.g., voting patterns based on income). They are regularities but not strict invariants.

They imply less necessity than natural science laws (e.g., voting patterns based on income). They are regularities but not strict invariants.

Because they often call anything beyond description a theory, without meeting philosophy-of-science standards.

What does Waltz aim to do in Chapter 1?

Define what theories and laws are,

State requirements for testing theories,

Establish standards needed for building his theory of international politics

What is the difference between description and theory for Waltz?

Description tells what happened, while theory explains why it happens, using laws and causal relationships. (Implied in text: theory must meet stricter scientific standards.)

THE INDUCTIVIST ILLUSION

The idea of knowledge for the sake of knowledge losesits charm, and indeed its meaning, once one realizes thatthe possible objects of knowledge are infinite.