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Help Me Help You: Conducting Field Experiments with Political Elites

Author

Listed:
  • Peter John Loewen

    (University of Toronto)

  • Daniel Rubenson

    (Ryerson University, Toronto)

  • Leonard Wantchekon

    (New York University)

Abstract

Field experiments can teach important facts about the political world to both political scientists and political elites, whose shared interest in how that world actually works should encourage greater collaboration between the two. Nonetheless, for political scientists, conducting field experiments with elites can seem prohibitively challenging. Drawing on four field experiments with political elites, two in Benin and two in Canada, we outline key lessons on negotiating and conducting field experiments with political elites. Specifically, we outline how ethical concerns can be addressed and overcome. We discuss how the expectations and timelines of campaigns and elites can be managed, particularly when they (appear to conflict) with academic timing and process. Finally, we outline several general concerns about implementation of field experiments and provide some unique solutions.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter John Loewen & Daniel Rubenson & Leonard Wantchekon, 2010. "Help Me Help You: Conducting Field Experiments with Political Elites," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 628(1), pages 165-175, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:628:y:2010:i:1:p:165-175
    DOI: 10.1177/0002716209351522
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Leonard Wantchekon, 2003. "Clientelism and voting behavior: Evidence from a field experiment in benin," Natural Field Experiments 00339, The Field Experiments Website.
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