Will a one-child policy increase economic growth? Does globalization contribute to global warming? Are unequal societies less healthy than more egalitarian societies?
It is questions like these that social scientists turn to quantitative macro-comparative research (QMCR) to answer. Although many social scientists understand statistics conceptually, they struggle with the mathematical skills required to conduct QMCR. This non-mathematical book is intended to bridge that gap, interpreting the advanced statistics used in QMCR in terms of verbal descriptions that any college graduate with a basic background in statistics can follow. It addresses both the philosophical foundations and day-to-day practice of QMCR in an effort to improve research outcomes and ensure policy relevance.
A comprehensive guide to QMCR, the book presents an overview of the questions that can be answered using QMCR, details the steps of the research process, and concludes with important guidelines and best practices for conducting QMCR. The book assumes that the reader has a sound grasp of the fundamentals of linear regression modeling, but no advanced mathematical knowledge is required in order for researchers and students to read, understand, and enjoy the book. A conversational discussion style supplemented by 75 tables and figures makes the book′s methodological arguments accessible to both students and professionals. Extensive citations refer readers back to primary discussions in the literature, and a comprehensive index provides easy access to coverage of specific techniques.
Cuprins
PART I: MACRO-COMPARATIVE DATA STRUCTURES
1. The Logic of Macro-Comparative Research
2. The International Data Infrastructure
3. Variable Operationalization
4. The Structure of Country Data
PART II: STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF MACRO-COMPARATIVE DATA
5. Statistical Modeling with Cross-Sectional Designs
6. Structured and Longitudinal Designs for Establishing Causality
7. Repeated Measures and Multilevel Modeling
8. An Interpretive Research and Policy Framework
Conclusion: The Political Economy of Quantitative Macro-Comparative Research
Despre autor
Salvatore J. Babones is a senior lecturer in sociology and social policy at the University of Sydney and an associate fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies (IPS). Previously, he was an assistant professor of sociology, public health, and public and international affairs at the University of Pittsburgh. He holds both a Ph D in sociology and an MSE in mathematical sciences from the Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Babones is the author or editor of eight books and more than thirty academic papers. He is the editor of Applied Statistical Modeling and Fundamentals of Regression Modeling, both published by SAGE as part of the Benchmarks in Social Research Methods reference series. His academic research focuses on globalization, economic development, and statistical methods for comparative social science research.
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