Introduction to Political Science Flashcards

Flashcards covering the key concepts and definitions from the Introduction to Political Science subject guide.

What is qualitative method?

The use of non-numerical techniques, such as archival research, text analysis, interviews, and so on, to uncover the key factors which explain a particular event or outcome.

What is quantitative method?

The application of statistical techniques to a large number of observations to identify correlations and causal relationships between ‘variables’.

Describe a the method of agreement:

Looking at two cases of the same phenomenon, and then trying to identify the variables on which the two cases are different

Describe a the method of difference:

Looking at two cases that differ in a variable that the researcher aims to understand, and then trying to identify the variables for which the two cases have the same value.

Name at least four of the different aspects that must be present in order for a state to be classified as democratic according to Przeworski et al. (2000).

1. The chief executive is elected. 2. The legislature is elected. 3. more than one party competing in elections. 4. An alteration in power under identical electoral rules has taken place.

List two of the reasons why parties were developed.

1.the level of likely wealth redistribution if a state switches to democracy or 2.the probability of there being a revolution or a coup.

What are the tree types of dictatorships?

monarchic dictatorship, military dictatorship and civilian dictatorship

What is the 'Nash equilibrium'?

A ‘set of strategies in a game such that no player has an incentive to unilaterally change her mind given what the other players are doing’