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Comparative Analysis of Political Systems

This document discusses how political systems are studied and compared. It outlines three main ways of comparing systems: case studies which look in-depth at particular systems; large-N studies which use statistical analysis to examine relationships across many systems; and comparing the structures, functions and performance of different political systems. The goal of comparing systems is to better understand political processes, alternatives, virtues and shortcomings, and the conditions of political change.

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Michael Piper
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24 views9 pages

Comparative Analysis of Political Systems

This document discusses how political systems are studied and compared. It outlines three main ways of comparing systems: case studies which look in-depth at particular systems; large-N studies which use statistical analysis to examine relationships across many systems; and comparing the structures, functions and performance of different political systems. The goal of comparing systems is to better understand political processes, alternatives, virtues and shortcomings, and the conditions of political change.

Uploaded by

Michael Piper
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPT, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Chapter 2

Comparing Political Systems

How we Study Politics

A. B.

C.

Describe Predict Explain Description Conceptual Framework set of concepts that are clearly defined and understood Explanation seeking to identify relationships b/w political phenomena. (Ex. Democracy & Peace) Prediction based on success & accuracy of first two.

I. Why We Compare
A.

B.

C.

D.

E.

See wider range of political alternatives Understand virtues and shortcomings of our own system Develop explanations & test hypotheses about how political processes work Understand conditions of political change Not possible to conduct controlled experiments

II. How we Compare


A. Case Studies Small n Allows researchers to look in-depth at particulars of a case B. Large N Studies Statistical studies Enough variables to allow researchers to examine relationships

III. Comparative Systems


A. System 1. Interacting with environment 2. Moving parts 3. Legitimacy

Comparative Systems Continued


B. Structure Media Interest Groups Political Parties and Legislatures Executives Bureaucracies Courts

Comparative Systems continued


C. Functions Implies purpose, direct & indirect 1. Systems Functions Political Socialization Recruitment Communication 2. Process Functions Interest articulation Interest aggregation Interest adjudication

Function Continued
3. Policy Functions Impact on society, economy, & culture Interaction with international environment Extraction Regulation of Behavior Distribution

IV. Policy Level Performance, Outcome, Evaluation


A.

B. C. D.

Relevant to the interests and needs of society Evaluation of Performance Responsive to Value Change Degree of Stability or Adaptability

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