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Importing set-theoretic tools into quantitative research: the case of necessary and sufficient conditions

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  • James Mahoney

    (Northwestern University)

  • Andrew Owen

    (Northwestern University)

Abstract

In this article, we import set-theoretic methods from the qualitative research tradition into the quantitative research tradition. We focus specifically on set-theoretic methods designed to analyze the extent to which a condition is necessary and is sufficient for an outcome of interest. We use these methods to reanalyze four major studies from the quantitative tradition. We find that set-theoretic methods call attention to asymmetrical patterns in the data that otherwise go unnoticed and unanalyzed. We develop a general set-theoretic framework for the study of necessity and sufficiency. We conclude that the use of this framework can enrich existing and future quantitative research in the social sciences.

Suggested Citation

  • James Mahoney & Andrew Owen, 2022. "Importing set-theoretic tools into quantitative research: the case of necessary and sufficient conditions," Quality & Quantity: International Journal of Methodology, Springer, vol. 56(4), pages 2001-2022, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:qualqt:v:56:y:2022:i:4:d:10.1007_s11135-021-01188-6
    DOI: 10.1007/s11135-021-01188-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

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