Causality in Policy Studies: a Pluralist Toolbox

This volume provides a methodological toolbox for conducting policy research, introducing a pluralistic approach to policy studies across disciplines. It covers techniques such as quasi-experimental designs, selection bias, and qualitative comparative analysis, and is intended for advanced academic courses and scholars and practitioners in policy-related fields.

Format: Hardback
Length: 274 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive volume offers a valuable methodological toolkit for conducting policy research, recognizing the diverse perspectives and approaches within various academic disciplines. It adopts a methodologically pluralistic approach, acknowledging the varying viewpoints on causality across these fields. Each chapter provides clear guidance on the research question that each technique can address, the necessary research design and data treatment, the validity of its results, and practical examples of its application. The techniques covered include quasi-experimental designs, methods to account for selection bias and observed imbalances, directed acyclic graphs and structural equation models, qualitative comparative analysis, Bayesian case study and process tracing, and agent-based modelling. By engaging with the content, readers will gain proficiency in utilizing these techniques, applying them thoughtfully, and integrating them to enhance the interpretation of findings. This volume is designed for advanced academic courses, scholars, and practitioners in policy-related fields, including political science, economics, sociology, and public administration. It serves as a valuable resource for advancing knowledge and understanding of policy research methodologies.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031129810
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023