Concept Misformation in Comparative Politics (III)

Concept Misformation in Comparative Politics (III)




DOI: 10.17976/jpps/2003.05.08
Rubric: THESAURUS

For citation:

Sartori G. Concept Misformation in Comparative Politics (III) . – Polis. Political Studies. 2003. No. 5. https://doi.org/10.17976/jpps/2003.05.08



Abstract

It is concrete examples of incorrect treatment of concepts in comparative politics that are analyzed in the final part of the article (for the first two parts see Polis, 2003, №№ 3 and 4). With models examined, of the usage of the “structure” and “function” categories and of the “pluralism”, “integration”, “participation” and “mobilization” concepts as examples, the author demonstrates that the basic problem of comparative studies is confusion as to the level of analysis, which entails conceptual stretching and logical inconsistencies. As a result, the very purpose of comparing is defeated, and we are left to swim in a sea of empirical and theoretical messiness. To overcome this situation, according to Sartori, it is necessary and possible (1) to develop the discipline along a medium level of abstraction with better intermediate categories, and (2) to manoeuvre, both upwards and downwards, along a ladder of abstraction in such a way as to bring together assimilation and differentiation, a relatively high explanatory power and a relatively precise descriptive content, macro-theory and empirical testing.


Content No. 5, 2003

See also:


Weber M.,
Russia's Transition to Pseudoconstitutionalism. – Polis. Political Studies. 2006. No2

Brinkman von A.,
Unauthoritative Laws (To the Psychology of Russian Executive Power) (Foreword by I.L. Belenky). – Polis. Political Studies. 2006. No1

Massing O.,
Domination. – Polis. Political Studies. 1991. No6

Aron R.,
An Essay on Liberties: A Universal and Unique Formula of Liberty Does Not Exist. – Polis. Political Studies. 1996. No1

Bruder W.,
Bureaucracy. – Polis. Political Studies. 1991. No5

 
 

Archive

   2024      2023      2022      2021   
   2020      2019      2018      2017      2016   
   2015      2014      2013      2012      2011   
   2010      2009      2008      2007      2006   
   2005      2004      2003      2002      2001   
   2000      1999      1998      1997      1996   
   1995      1994      1993      1992      1991