Key Research Concepts in Politics and International Relations
- Lisa Harrison - University of the West of England, UK
- Theresa Callan - Portsmouth University, UK
Key Features:
- Each entry is consistently structured, providing: a clear definition, a focused explanation, a summary of current debates and areas of research, further reading, and references to other related concepts.
- Explains how and why particular research methods are used and highlights alternative research concepts and strategies.
- Cross-relates entries, enabling you to dip in to topics and follow threads throughout the book.
- Packed with illuminating examples to help you to apply theory to the 'real world' of political analysis.
An essential companion for students of Politics and International Relations at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
This book provides a clear, balanced and accessible introduction to a broad range of methodological concepts and techniques. Research methods can be a challenging area of study for undergraduate students, and this text will be an indispensable guide for students of Politics and International Relations at different stages of their degree.
Fidelma Ashe
Senior Lecturer in Politics, the University of Ulster
Lisa Harrison and Theresa Callan have succeeded in doing what few authors have hitherto managed! They have written a robust introductory text on research methods in the field of Politics and IR which is both clear and accessible and covers all bases succinctly. This book will be a tremendous resource for undergraduates in the field.
Dr Nicholas Startin
Lecturer in the Department of Politics, Languages and International Studies, University of Bath
This volume provides a comprehensive, yet concise, examination of the main research concepts in politics and international relations. It is highly recommended, in particular, for students at undergraduate level.
Despite the fact that the book structure is very attractive, the contents are not what I expected. I was expecting more practical contents.
Very attractive structure yet the contents are not explained in a practical manner.
This is an excellent glossary book and I have already started recommending it to some of my dissertation students. It will no doubt figure as an essential reading on next year's research methods module. Each concept is explained thoroughly and the further readings and examples (drawn from a wide range of fascinating research) perfectly complement each chapter. The style is pleasant and extremely clear while avoiding oversimplifications. My only regret, but it is a small one, is that some alternative research concepts or methods - such as life stories, using films or fiction - are not covered.
A good, simple and well-structured overview of key research concepts and methods in IR.
The material (basic definitions with recommended readings) is covered in other course texts and would be duplicative rather than additive.
Includes clearly defined and focused explanation of research terms and approaches that will be invaluable for those newly involved in research appreciation and creation.
An excellent source of definitions and terms for undergraduates on all social science courses and research projects. Clearly written and very relevant to contemporary curricula.
Good overview of key concepts. I will recommend it to students who have troubles defining their research plan for the BA dissertation
