The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Political Science

The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Political Science provides an introduction to philosophical issues in political science, advancing the field by engaging philosophers and practicing political scientists. It covers topics such as theoretical frameworks, methodology, purposes, and interactions between political science and society, including the biology of political attitudes, rational choice explanations, collective action, institutional change, democracy, process tracing, qualitative comparative analysis, interpretivism, positivism, mixed methods, causal inference, external validity, contextualization, prediction, expertise, clientelism, feminism, values, and progress in political science.

Format: Hardback
Length: 672 pages
Publication date: 03 April 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Political Science is a comprehensive and up-to-date resource that offers a thorough introduction to philosophical issues in the field of political science. Comprising twenty-seven freshly written chapters, this handbook provides a panoramic perspective on the various philosophical dimensions that shape the practice of political science. At the same time, it serves as a vibrant forum where philosophers and practicing political scientists come together to contribute, debate, and advance the field of Philosophy of Political Science.

The chapters in this handbook are organized into four main sections:

Evaluating Theoretical Frameworks in Political Science: This section explores the strengths and weaknesses of different theoretical frameworks employed in political science. It examines the assumptions, arguments, and implications of various theories, such as rational choice theory, institutionalism, realism, and constructivism. By critically evaluating these frameworks, the handbook aims to provide insights into their contributions to our understanding of political phenomena.

Methodological Challenges and Reconciliations: This section addresses the methodological challenges and dilemmas faced by political scientists in their research. It explores the tensions between different research approaches, such as positivism, interpretivism, and mixed methods, and discusses strategies for reconciling these approaches to achieve more robust and reliable findings.

The Purposes and Uses of Political Science: This section examines the various purposes and uses of political science. It explores the role of political science in shaping public policy, understanding political behavior, and promoting social justice. The handbook also discusses the ethical implications of political science research and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex political problems.

The Interactions between Political Science and Society: This section explores the complex relationships between political science and society. It examines the ways in which political science contributes to social change, the challenges faced by political scientists in engaging with the public, and the role of political science in promoting democratic values and institutions.

In addition to these sections, the handbook covers a wide range of specific topics within the field of Philosophy of Political Science. These topics include the biology of political attitudes, intra-agent mechanisms, rational choice explanations, theories of collective action, explaining institutional change, conceptualizing and measuring democracy, process tracing, qualitative comparative analysis, interpretivism and positivism, mixed methods, within-cause causal inference, evidential pluralism, lab and field experiments, external validity, contextualization, prediction, expertise, clientelism, feminism, values, and progress in political science.

By providing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of political science, the Oxford Handbook of Philosophy of Political Science is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and practitioners alike. It offers a deep understanding of the philosophical foundations of political science, while also fostering dialogue and collaboration between philosophers and political scientists. As such, it plays a crucial role in advancing the field and promoting a more informed and reflective approach to political analysis and decision-making.

Weight: 1168g
Dimension: 254 x 182 x 46 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197519806