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Conceptual Problems as Obstacles to Progress in Political Science

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  • James Johnson

    (University of Rochester, jjsn@troi.cc.rochester.edu)

Abstract

When they assess competing theories political scientists typically rely exclusively and naively on criteria of empirical performance. They have correspondingly little to say about conceptual problems and seem generally unaware of the extent to which their assessments of empirical performance are parasitic on conceptual commitments. This, in turn, hinders their ability to both persuasively conduct and critically assess substantive research. I use four decades of research on political culture as a vehicle for demonstrating how conceptual problems pose obstacles to progress in political science.

Suggested Citation

  • James Johnson, 2003. "Conceptual Problems as Obstacles to Progress in Political Science," Journal of Theoretical Politics, , vol. 15(1), pages 87-115, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:jothpo:v:15:y:2003:i:1:p:87-115
    DOI: 10.1177/0951692803151004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. King, Gary & Keohane, Robert O. & Verba, Sidney, 1995. "The Importance of Research Design in Political Science," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 89(2), pages 475-481, June.
    2. Boix, Carles & Posner, Daniel N., 1998. "Social Capital: Explaining Its Origins and Effects on Government Performance," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 28(4), pages 686-693, October.
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