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Integrating Cross-case Analyses and Process Tracing in Set-Theoretic Research

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  • Derek Beach
  • Ingo Rohlfing

Abstract

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in the combination of two methods on the basis of set theory. In our introduction and this special issue, we focus on two variants of cross-case set-theoretic methods— qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) and typological theory (TT)—and their combination with process tracing (PT). Our goal is to broaden and deepen set-theoretic empirical research and equip scholars with guidance on how to implement it in multimethod research (MMR). At first glance, set-theoretic cross-case methods and PT seem to be highly compatible when causal relationships are conceptualized in terms of set theory. However, multiple issues have not so far been thoroughly addressed. Our article builds on the emerging MMR literature and seeks to enhance it in four ways. First, we offer a comprehensive and coherent elaboration of the two sequences in which case studies can be combined with a cross-case method. Second, we expand the perspective and discuss QCA and TT as two alternative methods for the cross-case analysis. Third, based on the idea of analytical priority, we introduce the distinction between a condition-centered and a mechanism-centered variant of set-theoretic MMR. Fourth, we point attention to the challenges of theorizing and analyzing arrangements of conditions and mechanisms associated with sufficient conjunctions.

Suggested Citation

  • Derek Beach & Ingo Rohlfing, 2018. "Integrating Cross-case Analyses and Process Tracing in Set-Theoretic Research," Sociological Methods & Research, , vol. 47(1), pages 3-36, January.
  • Handle: RePEc:sae:somere:v:47:y:2018:i:1:p:3-36
    DOI: 10.1177/0049124115613780
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ragin, Charles C., 2000. "Fuzzy-Set Social Science," University of Chicago Press Economics Books, University of Chicago Press, edition 1, number 9780226702773, April.
    2. Collier, David & Brady, Henry E. & Seawright, Jason, 2010. "Outdated Views of Qualitative Methods: Time to Move On," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 18(4), pages 506-513.
    3. Ragin, Charles C., 2006. "Set Relations in Social Research: Evaluating Their Consistency and Coverage," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 14(3), pages 291-310, July.
    4. Achim Goerres & Katrin Prinzen, 2012. "Using mixed methods for the analysis of individuals: a review of necessary and sufficient conditions and an application to welfare state attitudes," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 46(2), pages 415-450, February.
    5. repec:ucp:bkecon:9780226702766 is not listed on IDEAS
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