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Cumulation from Proper Specification: Theory, Logic, Research Design, and “Nice†Laws

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  • Harvey Starr

    (Department of Political Science University of South Carolina Columbia, South Carolina, USA, starr@gwm.sc.edu)

Abstract

Jim Ray has set out a challenge to students of international conflict: how can we improve our research to do better in the cumulation of knowledge and understanding of international phenomena? While most of the commentary in this special issue revolves about more technical statistical issues, the questions that Ray raises must also be addressed not just on statistical/methods grounds, but within the context of broader theoretical concerns and theoretical specification. That is the aim of this article. Drawing on the concept of the “research triad†of logic, theory, and methodology presented by Most & Starr (1989), this article will stress the relationship of theory to the development of research designs that will permit both the additive and integrative cumulation of knowledge. This article will discuss how statistical model specification can be informed by broader principles of research design, demonstrating how Ray's basic points are supported by earlier, complementary, and converging lines of argument.

Suggested Citation

  • Harvey Starr, 2005. "Cumulation from Proper Specification: Theory, Logic, Research Design, and “Nice†Laws," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 22(4), pages 353-363, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:compsc:v:22:y:2005:i:4:p:353-363
    DOI: 10.1080/07388940500339225
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Braumoeller, Bear F., 2003. "Causal Complexity and the Study of Politics," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 11(3), pages 209-233, July.
    2. Most, Benjamin A. & Starr, Harvey, 1980. "Diffusion, Reinforcement, Geopolitics, and the Spread of War," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 74(4), pages 932-946, December.
    3. Aldrich, John & Alt, James, 2003. "Introduction to the Special Issue," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 11(4), pages 309-315.
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    Cited by:

    1. Guidry, Ronald P. & Patten, Dennis M., 2012. "Voluntary disclosure theory and financial control variables: An assessment of recent environmental disclosure research," Accounting forum, Elsevier, vol. 36(2), pages 81-90.

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