Publication details
Inspiring QCA: An Alternative Approach for Security Studies
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2013 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Peace & Conflict Review |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Web | http://www.review.upeace.org/index.cfm |
| Field | Political sciences |
| Keywords | QCA; security studies; methodology |
| Attached files | |
| Description | The goal of the paper is to present Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) as a functional alternative to the mainstream research methods in social sciences, particularly, security studies. The main argument tries to initiate greater sympathy in the approach and to elaborate the opportunities that the technique offers. On the basis of re-linking the core methodological debate in social sciences with the security studies disputes, the outcome presents the possible application of QCA in security sector and advocates for its usage. In this context, QCA is perceived as a real alternative to conventional practices. Through the analysis of mainstream methodological discussion (KKV versus George and Bennett) and the debate about formal models in security studies, the paper reveals possible pitfalls in social science research. To cope with these limitations, QCA is presented and evaluated in a way of alternative approach. |