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Applications in Political and Social Sciences

(2001 ??), Children's Agency and Identity (unpublished manuscript).
Abstract: Abstract: Ethnic minority and low income youth are underrepresented in the academic pipeline to college, although these youth and their families value and actively pursue opportunities for higher education. One paper examines students' strategies for attaining their educational and career goals, including accessing personal, relational, and institutional resources. Outreach programs in and outside schools build on strengths of students who show initiative. In this study, application essays of 200 Mexican descent students (average age, 12 years), all chosen for a community college outreach program, were coded for their individual, relational, and institutional strategies and career identities. Qualitative Comparative Analysis was used to link individual cases with variable-based analyses. In their essays, most students expressed college-based career goals and identities. Girls and recent immigrants named fewer resources for obtaining their goals and relied more on individual and relational thank institutional resources than did boys and second generation youth. This work addresses how research, policy, and program practices fostering diversity in higher education can build on the strategies and strengths of immigrant youth.

ACHILOU, Dilshad (04.03.2008/04.06.2008), "The Factor of Political Islam in Post-Soviet Muslim States: Does Islam Promote or Hinder Prospects for Democracy?", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Midwest Political Science Association 66th Annual National Conference,
Abstract:This study examines the impact of emerging political Islamic institutions on transitions to democracy in 7 post-Soviet Muslim countries (Central Asia and Caucasus) by utilizing fuzzy-set QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis).

ACKRÉN, Maria (2009), Conditions for Different Autonomy Regimes in the World. A Fuzzy-Set Application,Abo Akademi University.

ACKRÉN, Maria and OLAUSSON, Pär (2008), "Condition(s) for Island Autonomy", International Journal on Minority and Group Rights, 15, 2-3, 227-258.
Abstract:The inquiry is focusing on why island autonomy occurs. Our point of departure considers four possible conditions such as geographical distance, ethnicity, GDP/capita and size according to population leading towards island autonomy. We use two sample groups in our study: one encompassing autonomous islands deriving from different parts of the world, with three main islands illustrating what we mean by island autonomy. These consist of the Azores, the Faroe Islands and Isle of Man. The second group consists of so called non-autonomous islands scattered around the world. The analysis is carried out with a specific technique within the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) family and that is Multi-Value QCA (MVQCA). MVQCA is an extension of the Crisp-Set QCA (CSQCA) and withholds a dichotomous dependent variable, while the possible explanatory variables (independent variables) can have multi-values. As a second technique Fuzzy-Set QCA (FSQCA) is employed as a control technique only. While assessing these techniques we receive combinations of conditions leading to the outcome in question. Results show that with MVQCA we receive four different paths towards island autonomy. Ethnicity as the only explanation is one route towards the outcome. A second path is small or large size. Long geographical distance combined with no ethnic diversity is a third way towards island autonomy. The fourth path is long geographical distance combined with the lower or upper middle income group. All the paths are equally valid.

ALEMAN, Jose (2009), "The Politics of Tripartite Cooperation in New Democracies: A Multi-Level Analysis", International Political Science Review, 30, 2, 141-162.
Abstract: The literature on labor politics explains cooperation among unions, employers and state representatives in new democracies as a function of alliances between politically infl uential unions and left governments. This article introduces an original dataset of labor agreements in new democracies (1994–2004). Using Boolean analysis, it shows that while left governments are typically associated with more labor market regulation, they are not suffi cient for social pacts to emerge in new democracies. Instead, protective labor market institutions and practices explain most instances of cooperation. Further analysis reveals this to be the case for all types of pacts analyzed.

ALON, S. (Dec 2007), "Overlapping Disadvantages and the Racial/Ethnic Graduation Gap Among Students Attending Selective Institutions", Social Science Research, 36, 4 , 1475-1499.
Abstract: Using a configurational approach, I examine the extent to which the intersection between background attributes can account for racial and ethnic gaps in graduation likelihood among students attending elite institutions in the United States. The results, which are based on the College & Beyond database, demonstrate the compounding effect of multiple disadvantages on students' graduation likelihood, above and beyond the unique hardship associated with each background characteristic. Under-represented minority students are more likely to suffer from overlapping disadvantages than whites and Asians, but given similar constellations of disadvantages most minority students perform as well as whites. However, black students with overlapping disadvantages are slightly less likely to graduate than their white configuration-counterparts. About third of the overall race gap is attributed to the compounding effect of overlapping disadvantages on blacks' achievement. That black male students with overlapping disadvantages are the most vulnerable group of all reveals an intersection between gender, race and class.

AMENTA, Edwin (1991), "Making the Most of a Case Study : Theories of the Welfare State and the American Experience", in RAGIN, Charles C. (ed.), Issues and Alternatives in Comparative Social Research, Leiden, E.J. Brill, pp. 172-194.

AMENTA, Edwin (2003), "What We Know About the Development of Social Policy: Comparative and Historical Research in Comparative and Historical Perspective", in MAHONEY, James and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 91-130.

AMENTA, Edwin, CAREN, Neal, and OLASKI, Sheera. J. (2005), "Age for Leisure? Political Mediation and the Impact of the Pension Movement on US Old-Age Policy", American Sociological Review, 70, 516-538.
Abstract: This article elaborates a political mediation theory of the impact of social movements on states and policy, positing that the influence of mobilization and specific strategies of collective action depends on specified political contexts and the type of influence sought. Examining the influence of the US. old-age pension movement, which involved millions of people, this article appraises the mediation model using state-level data from the 1930s and 1940s on Old Age Assistance-the main support for the aged at the time-and a Senate vote for generous senior citizens' pensions in 1939. Our models control for other potential influences, notably public opinion, which is often ignored in empirical studies and sometimes claimed to be responsible for causal influence mistakenly attributed to challengers. We employ pooled cross-sectional and time series analyses and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (FSQCA), which is especially suited to appraising the combinational expectations of the political mediation model. Both sets of analyses show that the pension movement was directly influential on the outcomes and provide support for the political mediation arguments.

AMENTA, Edwin, CARRUTHERS, Bruce G., and ZYLAN, Yvonne (1992), "A Hero for the Aged? The Townsend Movement, the Political Mediation Model, and U.S. Old-Age Policy", American Journal of Sociology, 98, 2, 308-339.
Abstract: During the Depression, the Townsend movement enjoyed varied success in seeking pensions for the aged. Social-movement models predict that success depends on the mobilization of resources or on collective action. Other theories predict that economic or political conditions cause the emergence of movements and changes in public spending. The political mediation model used here holds that, to succeed, a movement must reinforce political action with strong organization of members under favorable political conditions. This article defines "success" and employs various analytical and empirical strategies, including qualitative comparative analysis on state-level data, to appraise the models. Although each perspective has some support, the political mediation model offers the best explanation of the patterns of successes. The state and the political party system determine whether mobilization and action benefit a constituency and win acceptance for a movement organization.

AMENTA, Edwin and HALFMANN, Drew (2000), "Wage Wars: Institutional Politics, WPA Wages, and the Struggle for U.S. Social Policy", American Sociological Review, 65, 506-528.
Abstract:The WPA was the most expensive and politically prominent U.S. social program of the 1930s, and the generosity and very nature of U.S. social policy in its formative years was contested through the WPA. In this article, an institutional politics theory of social policy is elaborated that incorporates the influence of both institutional conditions and political actors: Institutions mediate the influence of political actors. Specifically, it is argued that underdemocratized political systems and patronage-oriented party systems dampen the cause of generous social spending and the impact of those struggling for it. State actors, left-party regimes, and social movements spur social policy, but only under favorable institutional conditions. To appraise this theory, key Senate roll-call votes on WPA wage rates are examined, as well as state-level variations in WPA wages at the end of the 1930s. The analyses, which include multiple regression and qualitative comparative analysis, support the theory.

AMENTA, Edwin and POULSEN, Jane Duss (1994), "Where to Begin: a Survey of Five Approaches to Selecting Independent Variables for Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Sociological Methods and Research, 23, 1, 22-53.

AMENTA, Edwin and POULSEN, Jane Duss (1996), "Social Politics in Context: the Institutional Politics Theory and Social Spending at the End of the New Deal", Social Forces, 75, 1, 33-60.
Abstract:In this article, we develop an institutional politics theory of public social provision and examine U.S. social spending programs at the end of the New Deal. This theory integrates key insights of institutional and political theories of social policy. Drawing on institutional arguments, our theory holds that the willingness or ability of pro-spending actors to promote social spending initiatives depends on institutional conditions, especially the extent of voting rights and the nature of political party systems. Furthermore, drawing on political arguments, the theory posits the importance of pro-spending actors, including progressive factions of political parties and organized challengers. To appraise the institutional politics theory, we analyze state-level outcomes for Old-Age Assistance pensions and Works Progress Administration wages, employing multiple regression and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). All analyses support the institutional politics theory.

ANONYMOUS (2006), What Does the Government Say, and Why? A Probalistic QCA-Based Study (unpublished manuscript).

ANONYMOUS (2009), Modélisation du dopage en logique floue et application a l'évaluation des risques par 100 éducateurs sportifs (unpublished manuscript).

______ (2011), [Working Title] CsQCA for Investigating Survey Methodological Research Questions (unpublished manuscript).
Abstract:Can existing longitudinal surveys profit from the (financial) advantages of web surveying by switching survey mode from face-to-face interviews to web surveys? Before such a radical change in data collection procedure can be undertaken, it needs to be established that no mode effects can confound the responses to the survey items. To this end the responses of the Dutch European Values Study of 2008 were compared to the responses of a time parallel web survey. The responses on 164 out of 256 items differed significantly across modes. To explain these response differences between modes an exploratory crisp set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (csQCA) approach was used. Seven sufficient conditions – being combinations of survey mode characteristics –, but no necessary conditions for response differences between survey modes were found. The results suggest that switching modes may affect the comparability between waves in a longitudinal survey. In addition, the usefulness of QCA for investigating survey methodological research questions is illustrated.

ARFI, Badredine (9.2.2004/9.5.2004), "Complex Causality in Politics: A Linguistic Fuzzy-Logic Approach", paper presented at : APSA 2004 Annual Meeting, Chicago, ---------- (2005 (forthcoming)), "Fuzzy Decision Making in Politics: A Linguistic Fuzzy-Set Approach (LFSA)", Political Analysis,

ARJA, Tyrkkö (2.2002), "The Intersection Between Working Life and Parenthood. A Boolean Approach", Economic and Industrial Democracy. An International Journal, 23, 1,
Abstract: This article aims at investigating the research concerning the interplay between working life and parenthood in an effort to sort out what is interesting to discuss and study further. The relationship between working life and parenthood is discussed focusing on the working life. Parenthood puts into focus the extent to which there is room for adjusting to demands from other life spheres when engaged in paid work. The investigation shows the importance of taking into account the gendered structures and practices in working life when trying to explain individual adjustment strategies. Approaches which are built upon a holistic research design, have proven to be valuable strategies in analyses of such complex phenomena as the adjustment between working life and family life.

AUBIN, David and VARONE, Frédéric (2011), "Successful Access of New Users to Water Resource: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis", [Submitted for Publication] ,
Abstract:Water is subject to many heterogeneous uses that put pressure on the resource and create rivalries between competing users. This article analyses the conditions under which new users are successful in gaining access to the resource and in imposing a change of behaviour on the incumbent users. The empirical study compares eleven ‘most different’ cases of water rivalries in four water basins. It shows that two main ‘causal paths’ explain the success of a new user: Either he activates a property right and negotiates a solution at no cost for the incumbents, or he activates a public policy that grants him a credible alternative to a negotiated agreement with the incumbents. The challenger has thus to find out the relevant institutional rule and, then, to elaborates an appropriate strategy to impose this rule.

AVDAGIC, Sabina (May 2010), "When Are Concerted Reforms Feasible? Explaining the Emergence of Social Pacts in Western Europe", Comparative Political Studies, 43, 5, 628-657.
Abstract: Under what conditions do governments, employers, and unions enter formal policy agreements on incomes, employment, and social security? Such agreements, widely known as social pacts, became particularly prominent during the 1990s when European economies underwent major adjustment. This article seeks to explain national variation in adjustment strategies and specifically why concerted agreements were struck in some countries but not in others. A fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis of 14 European countries is employed to assess main arguments about the emergence of pacts. The analysis yields two key findings. First, although prevailing arguments emphasize Economic and Monetary Union-related pressures, or alternatively unemployment, these factors were neither necessary nor in themselves sufficient for pacts to materialize. Rather, a high economic "problem load" appears to be causally relevant only when combined with particular political and institutional conditions, namely, the prevalence of electorally weak governments and/or an intermediate level of union centralization. Second, the analysis refines existing multicausal explanations of pacts by demonstrating three distinct, theoretically and empirically relevant causal pathways to concerted agreements.

BADGETT, M. V. Lee (9.2.2004/9.5.2004), "Variations on an Equitable Theme: Explaining International Same-Sex Partner Recognition Laws", paper presented at : APSA 2004 Annual Meeting, Chicago,
Abstract: Formal legal recognition of same-sex couples that provides at least some rights and responsibilities of marriage has spread rapidly throughout Western Europe, beginning with Denmark in 1989 and now in eight other countries. This article draws on conceptual frameworks of institutional change from several social sciences to explain why the nine countries recognize same-sex partnerships, while other countries with similar economic statuses, social histories, and religious traditions do not. One strand of theory focuses on the efficiency-enhancing potential of institutions, and a second strand of theory focuses on the conflict over institutional change. This paper uses both quantitative regression analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis of efficiency-related and conflict-related variables, including social norms, religiosity, political resources, and economic incentives, to explain the pattern of SSPR adoption. The findings suggest that tolerant attitudes toward homosexuality, low religiosity, and high levels of cohabitation are the primary predictors of a country’s legal recognition of same-sex partners.

BAKKER, Rene M., CAMBRE, Bart, KORLAAR, Leonique , and RAAB, Joerg (5 July 2010), "Managing the Project Learning Paradox: A Set-Theoretic Approach Toward Project Knowledge Transfer", International Journal of Project Management. (online)

BALTHASAR, Andreas (09.15.2004), "The Effects of the Institutional Context of the Agency Responsible for Allocating Evaluations on the Utilization of Evaluation Results: Evidenced Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", Luzern, Switzerland,
Abstract:This paper will present some results of a study in progress. The focus is on the question of the influence of different institutional settings, considering the responsibility for evaluation on the utilization of its results. The basis for the results I present consists of ten case studies from Switzerland. These cases deal with evaluations which have been allocated in different institutional contexts, with very different distances between evaluators and evaluees. To interpret the cases, "Qualitative Comparative Analysis" (QCA) will be used, in order to allow a combination of case- and variable -centred comparisons. The analysis indicates that the instrumental use of evaluation results is largely independent of the distance between the evaluator and the evaluee. On the other hand, greater conceptual use occurs either in the case of evaluations of a summative nature which have been undertaken with a large distance between the evaluator and the evaluee, or in the case of formative evaluations which have been compiled with a small distance between the evaluator and the evaluee. Again, high process-related use is observed if the evaluation is geared to usefulness and if there is a small distance between the evaluator and the eva luee. And the symbolic use of evaluation results may be expected if, in the case of a measure which is not politically controversial, a large distance between the evaluator and the evaluee is combined with a summative purpose for the evaluation.

---------- (2006), "The Effects of the Institutional Design on the Utilization of Evaluation Evidenced Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", Evaluation, 12, 3, 353-371.
Abstract: This article presents some of the results from a study in progress, focusing on the influence of the institutional distance between evaluators and evaluees on the utilization of evaluations. The basis for the results presented here is an analysis of ten case studies from Switzerland. These cases involve evaluations that were carried out in different institutional contexts, with widely varying institutional distances between evaluators and evaluees. ‘Qualitative Comparative Analysis’ (QCA) has been used to interpret the cases, in order to allow a combination of case-and variable-centred comparisons. The analysis indicates that, under certain conditions, the institutional distance between evaluators and evaluees has no influence on the use of evaluations. In particular, formative objectives can be achieved quite independently of distance. When interpreting the results, however, one should not neglect the fact that they are solely based on a systematic evaluation of ten case studies with QCA. Generalization is not possible on this basis, nor is this the aim of the present article. On the contrary, the objective is to continue developing the debate about the influence of the institutional distance between evaluators and evaluees on the utilization of evaluations.

---------- (2006), "The Effects of the Institutional Design on the Utilization of Evaluation: Evidenced Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", The International Journal of Theory, Research and Practice, 12, 3, **.
Abstract:This paper aims to present some of the results from a study in progress, focusing on the influence of the distance between evaluators and evaluees on the utilization of evaluations. The basis for the results presented here is an analysis of ten case studies from Switzerland. These cases involve evaluations that were assigned in different institutional contexts, with widely varying distances between evaluators and evaluees. "Qualitative Comparative Analysis" (QCA) has been used to interpret the cases, in order to allow a combination of case- and variable-centred comparisons. The analysis indicates that under certain conditions, the distance between evaluators and evaluees has no influence on the use of evaluations. In particular, formative objectives can be achieved quite independently of the distance. When interpreting the results, however, one should not neglect the fact that they are solely based on a systematic evaluation of ten case studies with QCA. Generalization is not permissible on this basis, nor is this the aim of the present article. On the contrary, the objective is to continue developing the debate about the influence of the distance between evaluators and evaluees on the utilization of evaluations.

---------- (2009), "Institutional Design and Utilization of Evaluation: a Contribution to a Theory of Evaluation Influence Based on Swiss Experience", Evaluation Review, 33, 3, 226-256.
Abstract:Growing interest in the institutionalization of evaluation in the public administration raises the question as to which institutional arrangement offers optimal conditions for the utilization of evaluations. Institutional arrangement denotes the formal organization of processes and competencies, together with procedural rules, that are applicable independently of individual evaluation projects. It reflects the evaluation practice of an institution and defines the distance between evaluators and evaluees. This article outlines the results of a broad-based study of all 300 or so evaluations that the Swiss Federal Administration completed from 1999 to 2002. On this basis, it derives a theory of the influence of institutional factors on the utilization of evaluations.

BATES, Diane C. (1997), Tourism and Development in the Caribbean: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis,Rutgers University (unpublished). ((M.A. Thesis, sociology, unpublished))

BEFANI, Barbara (2004), "La Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) e la valutazione basata sulla teoria: un connubio possibile", Rassegna Italiana Di Valutazione, 2,

BEFANI, Barbara, LEDERMANN, Simone, and SAGER, Fritz (2007), "Realistic Evaluation and QCA: Conceptual Parallels and an Empirical Application", Evaluation, 13, 2, 171-192.
Abstract:This article presents an innovative evaluation design which was used to evaluate the Swiss Environmental Impact Assessment. The design is new in that it amalgamates the realistic approach to evaluation with the method of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), the two of which are conspicuously similar. They share a complex view of causality, a generative perspective, a theory-driven approach to empirical observation and a limited claim to generalization. These conceptual parallels, as derived from the literature, are described in the first section, after a short introduction to realistic evaluation and the method of QCA. The following empirical section exemplifies their joint application and tackles the problems encountered. Based on this experience, the initial theoretical parallels are then reviewed. The article concludes that, under certain conditions, realistic evaluation and QCA provide a powerful tandem to produce empirically well-grounded context-sensitive evidence on policy instruments.

BEFANI, Barbara and SAGER, Fritz (9.25.2004/9.28.2004), "Realistic Evaluation and QCA. Theoritical Linkages and An Empirical Application", paper presented at : ESF Exploratory Workshop on "Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis. And Interdisciplinary European Endeavour for Methodological Advances and Improved Policy Analysis/Evaluation", Erfurt,

---------- (2006), "QCA As a Tool for Realistic Evaluations. The Case of the Swiss Environmental Impact Assessment", in RIHOUX, Benoît and GRIMM, Heike (eds), Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis, New York, Springer, pp. 263-284.

BELL, Erica (2007), "Healthy Aging - Can Clinical Trials Deliver?", Healthy Aging and Longevity, 1114, 137-143.
Abstract:The potential of a transdisciplinary research method - Quali-Quantitative Analysis (QQA) - for delivering better evidence for healthy aging is explored. Illustrative reviews from the literature on healthy aging are summarized, as are papers on methodology by Charles Ragin and colleagues. The evidence needs for healthy aging are explored, particularly in relation to the ability of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to deliver rich, diversity-oriented evidence. The techniques of QQA., which involves treating cases as configurations, are described. The QQA method has potential value for healthy aging research in that: (a) it could provide evidence in combinatorial forms useful to holistic practice; (b) it could enrich the evidence for practice by providing more rigorous information from small-N groups, within RCTs and where RCTs cannot be used; and (c) it could add to the ability of RCTs to generate theoretical advances.

---------- (Feb 2007), "Time, Space and Body in Adolescent Residential Services: Re-Imagining Service Research", Addiction Research & Theory, 15, 1, 97-111.
Abstract:The objective of this article, which emerges from the pragmatic dissatisfactions of a service designer, is to explore the way forward for developing more socially useful research evidence for adolescent substance abuse services. Analysis is made of the limitations of existing substance abuse research, driven by classical experimental models that rely on traditional quantitative techniques. Theoretical propositions about the nature of an ideal service are developed from interviews with professionals in twenty of Australia's twenty-three adolescent residential services. These suggest the configurational nature of the service, arising from its multi-dimensional temporal, spatial and material properties, and the importance of the service's capacity to combine diverse service elements in complementary ways to meet individual client needs. A social sciences methodology - qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) - has the potential to better analyse the configurational nature of such services, allowing identification of effective service element combinations, especially in small-N studies.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk (1998), "Conditions of Authoritarianism, Fascism and Democracy in Inter-War Europe. a Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Analysis", International Journal of Comparative Sociology, 39, 4, 335-377. ---------- (2000), "Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Analysis", in BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and MITCHELL, Jeremy (eds), Conditions of Democracy in Europe, 1919-39: Systematic Case Studies, Basingstoke, New York, Macmillan, pp. 285-315.

---------- (2002), "Macro-Quantitative Vs Macro-Qualitative Methods in the Social Sciences - Testing Empirical Theories of Democracy", paper presented at : Colloque de la Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée "Faire de la politique comparée au 21eme siecle" Atelier 2:outils méthodologiques, Bordeaux, France,
Abstract:There are some few attempts to bridge the divide between quantitative and qualitative methods in the social sciences. This paper explicitely illustrates and tests some of these methods like regression, cluster, or discriminant analysis, on the one hand, and more recent case- and diversity-oriented methods like QCA, Fuzzy Sets and similar ones, on the other. This is done by using examples and data for different empirical theories of democracy such as those by Lipset, Vanhanen, or Moore/Stephens. In this way, the specific strenghts and weaknesses of the respective methods and theories are demonstrated.

---------- (2002), "Macro-Quantitative Vs. Macro-Qualitative Methods in the Social Sciences. Testing Empirical Theories of Democracy", COMPASSS Working Paper, 2, 36p.
Abstract: There are some new attempts to bridge the divide between quantitative and qualitative methods in the social sciences. My paper explicitely illustrates and tests some of these methods like regression, cluster, or discriminant analysis, on the one hand, and more recent case- and diversity-oriented methods like QCA, Fuzzy Sets and similar ones, on the other. This is done by using examples and data for different empirical theories of democracy such as those by Lipset, Vanhanen, or Moore/Stephens. In this way, the specific strengths and weakenesses of the respective methods and theories are demonstrated.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and CRONQVIST, Lasse (2005), "Macro-Quantitative Vs. Macro-Qualitative Methods in the Social Science. An Example From Empirical Democratic Theory Employing New Software", Historical Social Research, 4, 30, 154-175.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and DE MEUR, Gisèle (1992), "Conditions of Democracy in Inter-War Europe. A Boolean Test of Major Hypotheses", Discussion Paper. Centre d'Economie Mathématique et d'Econométrie. Université Libre de Bruxelles,

---------- (1994), "Conditions of Democracy in Interwar Europe: a Boolean Test of Major Hypotheses", Comparative Politics, 26, 3, 253-279.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and DE MEUR, Gisèle (1997), "Reduction of Complexity for a Small-n Analysis: a Stepwise Multi-Methodological Approach", Comparative Social Research, 16, 133-162.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and MITCHELL, Jeremy (eds) (2003), Authoritarianism and Democracy in Europe, 1919-39. Comparative Analyses., Hampshire, UK, Palgrave Macmillan Limited.

BERG-SCHLOSSER, Dirk and QUENTER, Sven (1996 ), "Macro-Quantitative Versus Macro-Qualitative Methods in Political Science. Advantages and Disadvantages of Comparative Procedures Using the Welfare-State Theory As an Example", Historical Social Research, 21, 1, 3-25.

BERNARD, H. Russell and RYAN, Gery (1998), "Qualitative and Quantitative Methods of Text Analysis", in BERNARD, H. Russell (ed.), Hand-Book of Method in Cultural Anthropology, Walnut Creek, CA, Alta Mira Books, p. ?? (online at : http://nersp.nerdc.ufl.edu/~ufruss/txtana.html)

BINDER, Martin (09.10/09.11./09.12.2009), "Explaining the Selectivity of Humanitarian Intervention:A Fuzzy-Set Analysis", paper presented at : ECPR General Conference , Potsdam,

BLACKMAN, Tim (Jun 2008), "Can Smoking Cessation Services Be Better Targeted to Tackle Health Inequalities? Evidence From a Cross-Sectional Study", Health Education Journal, 67, 2, 91-101.
Abstract: Objective To investigate how smoking cessation services could be more effectively targeted to tackle socioeconomic inequalities in health. Design Secondary analysis of data from a household interview survey undertaken for Middlesbrough Council in north east England using the technique of Qualitative Comparative Analysis. Setting Home-based interviews in Middlesbrough. Method Qualitative Comparative Analysis of data for 2882 respondents aged 16 years or over. Smoking prevalence was calculated for different combinations of respondents' characteristics: worklessness, income, education, neighbourhood liveability and neighbourliness. Results Smoking prevalence ranged from 74.5 per cent to 10.3 per cent across 19 combinations of the selected characteristics. Almost all combinations with smoking rates higher than 50 per cent included worklessness. One other combination exceeded 50 per cent and included respondents reporting all of the following: unhelpful neighbours, no further education, low liveability and low income. The combinations with the lowest smoking prevalences had only one or two of these characteristics present and the very lowest prevalence of 10.3 per cent was associated with all being absent. If unhelpful neighbours were present in any combination smoking rates were moderately high (32.4 per cent or higher). Conclusions The analysis points to important features of the context of smokers' lives. By improving these conditions, appreciable reductions in smoking prevalence are likely. These reductions might be even greater if interventions to improve neighbourhoods and job opportunities are combined with the timely provision of smoking cessation services. Targeting these transitions could be a more effective strategy than simply targeting all deprived neighbourhoods.

BLACKMAN, Tim and DUNSTAN, Katie (2010), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Health Inequalities: Investigating Reasons for Differential Progress With Narrowing Local Gaps in Mortality", Journal of Social Policy, 39, 3, 359-373.
Abstract: Although health inequalities in England reflect underlying deprivation, there is considerable variation among deprived areas in the extent to which these inequalities are narrowing. Using survey data from 15 local authority areas in North West England, and Ragin's technique of Qualitative Comparative Analysis, contextual features and ways of working in these areas are shown to combine in systematic ways with recent trends in inequalities as measured by premature mortality. For circulatory diseases, a narrowing mortality gap showed a clear association with smoking cessation services that accorded with a best practice description, combined with a local population with relatively more people aged 65 or older. For cancers, a narrowing mortality gap was associated with areas that combined relatively low population mobility with a professional working culture described as one of individual commitment and championing. These findings reveal the complexity of meeting health inequality targets and applying evidence to this endeavour, since both ways of working and context appear to be important to making progress. Both need to be understood case by case if targets are to be locally realistic and evidence applied where local practice is known to matter to the outcome.

BLATTER, Joachim, KREUTZER, Matthias, RENTL, Michaela, and THIELE, Jan (2009), "Preconditions for Foreign Activities of European Regions: Tracing Causal Configurations of Economic, Cultural, and Political Strategie", Publius: The Journal of Federalism, 40, 1/, 171-199.
Abstract: This article traces international activities of regional governments in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, and Italy. We describe how intensively the regions are investing in economic, cultural, and political activities, and how broad the different activities are spread. Then we analyze preconditions for strong activities by using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. Two assumptions about causal configurations are confirmed. First, high economic interdependencies in combination with large financial capacities are in most cases sufficient for setting up many promotional offices abroad. Second, a high level of policy autonomy, in combination with strong competencies in foreign affairs, is almost always sufficient for having a well-staffed office in Brussels. In contrast, partnerships with foreign political entities are not a result of a cultural causal configuration.

BLEIJENBERGH, I. and ROGGEBAND, C. (Win 2007), "Equality Machineries Matter: the Impact of Women's Political Pressure on European Social-Care Policies", Social Politics, 14, 4, 437-459.
Abstract:This study examines the impact of feminist pressure and European Union (EU) policies on national policy changes, such as the introduction or extension of public childcare provision, parental leave, and part-time work legislation. We compared six countries on the basis of Qualitative Comparative Analysis and found that women's political pressure, especially through national equality machinery, is a prerequisite for the emergence and extension of social-care policies. Sequence analysis showed that national machineries are crucial in translating EU measures into national policies.

BOCHSLER, Daniel (2006), "Electoral Engineering and Inclusion of Ethnic Groups: Ethnic Minorities in Parliaments of Central and Eastern European Countries.", COMPASSS Working Paper, 38, 35p.
Abstract: Inter-ethnic fire was set in many countries in Central and Eastern Europe after the breakdown of the communist regimes. This resulted in discrimination of groups of citizens and in violent conflicts. An important aspect of power-sharing regimes and of the discrimination or integration of minority groups is the way, in which parliaments are elected. Parliamentary elections may accelerate the flames – or they may be attempts to extinguish them. To a certain degree, the elections’ success in fire extinguishing relies on the electoral systems. In this article, I shall test if electoral systems are favourable to ethnic minority integration. For that purpose, I explore three questions: 1. Do they enable ethnic minority parties to gain representation in parliament? 2. Do they allow a plurality amongst ethnic minority parties? 3. Do they support a policy of conciliation by giving incentives to vote for mixed-ethnic parties? Or do they on the contrary hinder their success? My empirical test on a database covering 106 ethnic minorities in Central and European countries confirms the importance of electoral laws for the representation of ethnic minority parties. More concretely, my tests using the Qualitative Comparative Approach (QCA) show that if proportional electoral systems are amended with high national thresholds, even medium-sized territorially concentrated ethnic minorities are excluded from parliament. And any kind of plurality of singlemember district systems may be poison for the representation of not-concentrated minorities and exclude local minorities.

BOL, Damien (2007), Les réformes électorales des pays a philosophie proportionnelle dans les années nonante. Application de QCA a une analyse macro-causale comparée, Louvain-la-Neuve, Université catholique de Louvain (unpublished).

---------- (forthcoming), "Une AQQC-QCA des réformes des systèmes électoraux proportionnels dans les années quatre-vingt dix", Revue Internationale De Politique Comparée,

BONIFACE, Dexter S. (2010), "Rethinking Presidential Challenges and Falls: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis ", paper presented at : APSA 2010 Conference,
Abstract:Charles Ragin and proponents of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) make strong claims about the strengths of QCA when contrasted with conventional variable-oriented research. Most importantly, Ragin argues that QCA is better capable (and perhaps uniquely capable) of assessing causal complexity, “defined as a situation in which an outcome may follow from several different combinations of causal conditions” (Ragin 2008a: 23). It is also claimed that QCA can bring to light heterogeneity in a population of cases that is obscured by conventional statistical techniques. My essay seeks to evaluate these methodological claims by contrasting qualitative and quantitative approaches as applied to a critical substantive issue in South American politics, namely presidential falls - i.e., the premature departure from office of elected presidents. This is accomplished by re-analyzing the data from Kathryn Hochstetler’s (2006) important contribution on the subject which draws some of its key inferences from quantitative regression. The application of QCA to Hochstetler’s data also yields new substantive insights into presidential challenges and falls that further bring into focus the distinctive strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative approaches.

BOSWELL, Terry and BROWN, Cliff (1999), "The Scope of General Theory. Methods for Linking Deductive and Inductive Comparative History", Sociological Methods and Research, 28, 2, 154-185.

BOYER, Robert (2001), "The Diversity of Labor Market Institutions Governing the "New Economy" Against Technological Determinism", paper presented at : Session “Labour Market and Human Resources”, SASE 2001 Meeting “Knowledge: the New Wealth of Nations?”, Amsterdam,
Abstract: The paper combines an historical analysis of the American economy with a comparison of twenty OECD countries in order to assess the origin of the emerging growth regime and the basic institutions at the core of good macroeconomic performances during the 90’s. Whereas the American case may hint that product and labour market deregulation, venture capital and NASDAQ are necessary for the success of a technological led growth, the international comparison suggests the coexistence of at least three successful configurations. Deregulated economies explore a science pushed innovation, along with external labour flexibility, significant inequality in terms of competences. But social democratic countries develop a cooperative approach to the knowledge based economy: rather homogenous educational level, life long learning, negotiation by social partners of the consequence of innovation, collectively organized labour mobility. There is a third configuration for some catching-up economies that use information technology as a method for leapfrogging: labour markets remain largely institutionalised and regulated, without exerting adverse impact upon macroeconomic performance. By contrast, medium sized economies such as Germany, Italy and France are experiencing much more difficulties in reforming their labour market institutions to cope with the challenge of information and telecommunication technologies (ICT). This might be one of the reasons why, in these countries, many policy makers do think that they should emulate the typical market led capitalism institutions. The conclusion of the paper is that they should instead look for the achievements of European social democratic countries. This is specially attractive given the current state of European integration.

BOYER, Robert (02.22.2005)paper presented at : Coherence, Diversity and Evolution of Capitalism. The Institutional Complementarity Hypothesis, ?,

---------- (2007), "Growth Strategies and Poverty Reduction: the Institutional Complementarity Hypothesis", paper presented at : Working Document PSE - Paris-Jourdan Sciences Economiques, Nr 2007-43, Paris,
Abstract: This article starts from the limits of the policies that assume a significant de-connection between antipoverty strategies and the logic of the growth regime and that mainly rely upon market mechanisms. By contrast, a branch of the new institutional economics argues that a complete set of coordinating mechanisms is constitutive of really existing economies and that they are more complementary than substitute. The Institutional Complementarity Hypothesis (ICH) may be useful for analyzing simultaneously the antipoverty policies and the viability of growth regimes. The different brands of capitalism are the outcome of complementary institutions concerning competition, labor market institutions, welfare and innovation systems. Generally, such configurations cannot be emulated by poor developing countries, but reviewing the preliminary findings of the UNRISD country case studies suggests some common features to all successful experiments. Basically, antipoverty policies are efficient when they create the equivalent of virtuous circles within which growth entitles antipoverty programs and conversely these programs sustain the speed and stability of growth. Two methods are proposed in order to detect possible complementarities and design accordingly economic policies: the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) on one side, national growth diagnosis on the other side. A special attention is devoted to the timing of policies and the role of policy regimes. A brief conclusion wraps up the major findings and proposes a research agenda.

BRAUN, Thorsten (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Using the Fuzzy-Set Framework to Analyse Labour-Market Policy Reforms", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: The fuzzy-set framework has generated wide interest in the field of comparative welfare studies. The primary focus of this paper is an application of the fuzzy-set framework in a comparative case study of two different welfare regimes, focusing on their strengths and weaknesses in relation to labour-market policy reforms up through the 1990s. For this study I chose one Scandinavian Social Democratic and one Central European welfare regime, namely Denmark and Germany, respectively. The fuzzy-set framework is widely seen as a possibility to bridge gaps between the mainstream case-oriented and variable-oriented approaches. It provides the opportunity to compare differences in kind and degree of labour-market policy reforms across countries and over time. This paper is designed to measure and compare the level of labour-market policy reforms. The specification of empirical indicators (e.g. the quality of employment policies) and the translation of data to fuzzy scores give us an opportunity to assess patterns of the complex labour-market policy reform process. Thus it will be possible to specify the level of labour-market policy reform in the two countries. The paper presents the preliminary results of an application of the fuzzy-set framework, focusing on its strengths and weaknesses.

BREITMEIER, Helmut, UNDERDAL, Arild, and YOUNG, Oran R. (2011 forthcoming), "The Effectiveness of InterNational Environmental Regimes: Comparing and Contrasting Findings From Quantitative Research", International Studies Review, 13,

BRITT, David W. (1998), "Beyond Elaborating the Obvious: Context-Dependent Parental-Involvement Scenarios in a Preschool Program ", Applied Behavioral Science Review, 6, 2, 179-198.

BRITT, David W. (4.2.1998/4.5.1998), "Analyzing Context-Dependent Policy With Qualitative Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : Midwest Sociological Society Meeting, Panel on "Multi-Method Approaches to Policy Analysis", Kansas City,

BRITT, David W. (2006), "A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the Conditions Affecting Early Maternal Transfer Patterns", Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, 12, 8, 392-395.
Abstract:In Arkansas, almost all of the high-risk-pregnancy resources are concentrated in a single place, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). During the 6-month period before a telemedicine programme started, there were five operational telemedicine sites in the state, and during the subsequent 12-month period, there were 13 telemedicine sites in operation. Data were gathered on birth-related transfers during the two periods. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was used to assess the effect of different combinations of telemedical and hospital-level resources on the timing of maternal transfers. Early (pre-33-week gestational age) maternal transfers occurred in period 1 (before the telemedicine programme started), only from areas with level-2 hospital resources and no telemedicine access; early transfers also occurred in period 2 from areas with level-2 hospital resources and either telemedicine access or no telemedicine access. We conclude that combinations of resources affect physician decisions regarding transfer and that QCA is a useful tool for examining the growth and development of telemedicine systems.

BRITT, David W. and EVANS, M. I. (Dec 2007), "Sometimes Doing the Right Thing Sucks: Frame Combinations and Multi-Fetal Pregnancy Reduction Decision Difficulty", Social Science & Medicine, 65, 11, 2342-2356.
Abstract: Data are analyzed for 54 women who made an appointment with a North American Center specializing in multifetal pregnancy reduction (MFPR) to be counseled and possibly have a reduction. The impact on decision difficulty of combinations of three frames through which patients may understand and consider their options and use to justify their decisions are examined: a conceptional frame marked by a belief that life begins at conception; a medical frame marked by a belief in the statistics regarding risk and risk prevention through selective reduction; and a lifestyle frame marked by a belief that a balance of children and career has normative value. All data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and observation during the visit to the center over an average 2.5h period. Decision difficulty was indicated by self-assessed decision difficulty and by residual emotional turmoil surrounding the decision. Qualitative comparative analysis was used to analyze the impact of combinations of frames on decision difficulty. Separate analyses were conducted for those reducing only to three fetuses (or deciding not to reduce) and women who chose to reduce below three fetuses. Results indicated that for those with a non-intense conceptional frame, the decision was comparatively easy no matter whether the patients had high or low values of medical and lifestyle frames. For those with an intense conceptional frame, the decision was almost uniformly difficult, with the exception of those who chose to reduce only to three fetuses. Simplifying the results to their most parsimonious scenarios oversimplifies the results and precludes an understanding of how women can feel pulled in different directions by the dictates of the frames they hold. Variations in the characterization of intense medical frames, for example, can both pull toward reduction to two fetuses and neutralize shame and guilt by seeming to remove personal responsibility for the decision. We conclude that the examination of frame combinations is an important tool for understanding the way women carrying multiple fetuses negotiate their way through multi-fetal pregnancies. and that it may have more general relevance for understanding pregnancy decisions in context. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

BRITT, David W., RISINGER, S. T., MILLER, V., MANS, M. K., KRIVCHENIA, E. L., and EVANS, M. I. (Aug 28 2000), "Determinants of Parental Decisions After the Prenatal Diagnosis of Down Syndrome: Bringing in Context", American Journal of Medical Genetics, 93, 5, 410-416.
Abstract:This article develops the concept of decision context to refer to the combinations of factors that are important in understanding and predicting termination decisions after a prenatal diagnosis of trisomy 21. Four factors are examined: maternal age, gestational age, prior voluntary abortion, and existing children. The cases were studied at the Wayne State University's Reproductive Genetics Clinic. Qualitative comparative analysis, a technique specifically designed for examining the impact of combinations of factors, is used to isolate influential decision contexts. Odds and odds ratios are used to pinpoint outcome differences among different decision contexts. Four alternative decision contexts are especially conducive to choosing to terminate a pregnancy. Two of these involve women of any age and are formed from combinations of gestational age and existing children (existing children and low gestational age, and no children combined with late gestational age), Older women who have not had an abortion and who discover the trisomy 21 anomaly early are likely to choose termination. Younger women who have had an abortion are also likely to choose termination. Our data suggest there are added layers of complexity to patients' decisions that derive from combinations of conditions. An additional, strong implication is that qualitative comparative analysis may be particularly useful in understanding such complexity.

Bromley, Patricia, Hokyu Hwang, and Powell Walter W., ""It Didn't Happen the Way We Thought It Would": Determinants and Consequences of Strategic Planning in the Nonprofit Sector." (2009):2009.

BROWN, Cliff and BOSWELL, Terry (1995), "Strikebreaking or Solidarity in the Great Steel Strike of 1919: a Split L abor Market, Game-Theoretic, and QCA Analysis", American Journal of Sociology, 100, 6, 1479-1519.

BRUCKER, Debra L. (Sep 2009), "Social Construction of Disability and Substance Abuse Within Public Disability Benefit Systems", International Journal of Drug Policy, 20, 5, 418-423.
Abstract:Federal legislation passed in 1996 in the United States changed the eligibility criteria for public disability benefit programmes. After 1996, persons with a primary diagnosis of substance abuse no longer qualified to receive disability benefits. Using a framework of social construction, a qualitative comparative analysis examines how the national disability systems of eight countries - Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, South Africa, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the US - address issues of substance abuse. The US is the only country among the focal countries that does not currently allow disability benefits to be awarded to those with primary conditions of substance use disorders. International experience in providing disability benefits to persons with substance use disorders can inform US policy makers as to how the current US federal disability benefit system might be expanded to be more inclusive of persons with substance abuse disorders.

BRUEGGEMANN, John and BOSWELL, Terry (1998), "Realizing Solidarity: Sources of Interracial Unionism During the Great Depression", Work and Occupations, 25, 4, 436-482.

BURSENS, Peter (1999), "Bijlage 5: Uitwerking van de QCA analyse", in BURSENS, Peter, Impact van instituties op beleidsvorming. Een institutionneel perspectief op besluitvorming in de communautaire pijler van de Europese Unie [PhD dissertation, unpublished], Antwerpen, Universitaire Instelling Antwerpen, pp. 409-419.

BURSENS, Peter (1999), Impact van instituties op beleidsvorming. Een institutionneel perspectief op besluitvorming in de communautaire pijler van de Europese Unie, Antwerpen, Universitaire Instelling Antwerpen (unpublished). (PhD dissertation, unpublished)

BÜRGLER, Beatrice (December 2007), "Democratic Legitimacy in the International Environmental Policy. Normative Requirements in the Context of International Cooperation", paper presented at : Workshop on Comparative Methods: Constructing Concepts and Using QCA, University of Bern ,

CAMBRÉ, Bart (2005), "The Potential of QCA for a Contextual Approach With Cross-Cultural Data. The Relationship Between Ethnocentrism and Religiosity.", paper presented at : COMPASSS Intimate Seminar,

CARROLL, Eero (2003), "The Clear and Present Danger of 'Globaloney' Industry. Globalization Concepts in Welfare Research and Social Opinion Pieces Since 1995", Global Social Policy, 3, 2, 195-211.
Abstract:To what extent is globalization given an institutionally elaborated definition in studies on its welfare, welfare state and/or social policy impacts published since 1995? And, is it seen to inhibit or stimulate welfare (state) development? These questions are addressed through a study sample (N = 161) from the International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, subjected to combinatory analysis similar to qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) using a pre-typological classification of definition components. Disaggregated definitions oriented to relations and actors (most often trade and/or competition as well as international organizations) coincide with polarized welfare (state) impacts, envisioned or real, of globalization. Positive overall globalization impacts are rare in this literature. Mixed or zero impacts claims are more common in studies including an arena-related component (often global market integration) in defining globalization, possibly indicating less determinism in views thereof, but also conventionalism in perspectives on markets. Future research needs more methodological rigour and scepticism of overgeneralized assertions on globalization’s impacts.

CASTELLANO, Jose Maria ( 2010), "Secondary Education and Broadband Diffusion: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Info, 12, 6, 121-38.
Abstract: Purpose - This paper aims to analyze the determinants of broadband diffusion, taking into account supply-side factors such as market entry regulation and demand-side factors such as secondary education attainment. Design/methodology/approach - This paper analyzes 27 countries from the European Union (EU) from 1996 to 2009 using qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), which combines quantitative and qualitative methods. Findings - The main findings point out that there is one way for "innovator" adopters and "laggard" adopters in broadband diffusion, while there are few ways for the remaining adopters. Moreover, high entry regulation is associated more with "innovator" adopters, "early adopters" and "early majority adopters" in broadband diffusion, while medium and low entry regulations are associated more with "late majority" and "laggard" adopters in broadband diffusion. Social implications - This paper suggests that high secondary school attainment is a necessary factor for broadband innovator countries. By contrast, low income and low secondary school attainment are factors connected with late majority and laggard broadband adopters. Originality/value - At present, there is no other research about broadband diffusion or technology diffusion that uses this mixed approach. While the results may not be very conclusive, they will serve as an initial springboard for further research into more specific-variable studies.

CEBOTARI, Victor (2010), Conflicting Demands in Ethnically Diverse Societies. Ethnopolitical Contention and Identity Values in Europe, the Netherlands, Maastricht University (unpublished).

---------- (2010), "Protesting Ethnic Minorities in Europe: A Fuzzy-Set Analysis", COMPASSS Working Paper 2010-57, 2010-57,
Abstract:This study analyzes the contextual nature of ethnogroup mobilization in Europe. The focus is on ethnopolitical protest, a form of group mobilization involving peaceful protest. The analysis is based on the “Minorities at Risk” dataset which consists of data on ethnic minorities that are most vulnerable to discrimination practices within European countries. The paper assesses the status of necessity and sufficiency for several conditions in relation to both the presence and the absence of strong ethnopolitical protest for 29 selected minority groups: democracy level, political discrimination, geographical concentration, ethnic fractionalization and the degree of national pride among members of the minority group. The fuzzy-set analysis highlights that minority groups are engaged in strong, but peaceful protest when they (1) are mobilized in a democratic environment, (2) live in a county with a high degree of ethnic fractionalization, and (3) either have weak feelings of national pride or are ethnically concentrated in compact territorial locations. On the other side of the outcome, minority groups without strong ethnopolitical protest (1) have strong feelings of national pride among members of the group, (2) face no political discrimination, and (3) reside in emerging democracies. These results demonstrate the utility of fuzzy set analysis for the investigation of causal complexity in the area of ethnic mobilization.

CHAN, Steve (2003), "Explaining War Termination: a Boolean Analysis of Causes", Journal of Peace Research, 40, 1, 49-66.

CHOMPALOV, Ivan Michailov (1998), Multi-Institutional Collaborations in Science: Structure, Types, and Outcomes,Louisiana State University (unpublished). (PhD dissertation (unpublished))
Abstract: The advent of modern 'big science' brings about a new kind of research formation: multi-institutional collaborations involving teams of researchers from several organizations. Despite their recent proliferation and visibility, no general classification of these 'virtual organizations' exists. This study adopts a macrosociological, comparative perspective to develop a variety of classification schemes that capture the systematic variation of interorganizational collaborations in science along basic structural dimensions and to examine the relationships of these classifications with important sociological outcomes. Qualitative, historical analysis of collaborations in high-energy physics, space science, and geophysics showed that, when we set aside field-specific differences, seven general dimensions emerge as fundamental in describing the structural variety of collaborations in science: project formation, magnitude, organization and management, interdependence, participation, communication, and technological practice. Cluster analysis was then employed using interview data from 23 recent collaborations in five new areas of physics and allied sciences to build classification schemes along these structural dimensions. Next, analysis of variance models and qualitative comparative analysis were used to explore how the classifications relate to valued sociological outcomes such as success, trust, conflict, stress, and documentary routines. The empirical results strongly supported the central argument that a typology based on a broad conception of technological practice is superior to others in its ability to predict the patterned consequences of multi-institutional collaborations in science. In fact, it is the only clustering that is capable of explaining perceived success, trust, and stress. The major findings of the dissertation research suggest that it is necessary to move away from the narrow focus on the laboratory and the disciplinary organization of R&D in order to capture the structure.

CHRISTMANN, A. (2010), "Direct Democracy and Religious Minorities: Detecting Indirect Effects in the Swiss Cantons", Swiss Political Science Review, 16, 1, 1-41.
Abstract:Since indirect effects of popular votes are difficult to detect, research so far has focused on the direct effects of direct democracy. By analyzing parliamentary processes concerning the recognition of religious communities in the Swiss cantons, this study seeks to contribute to closing this gap. It is argued that parliaments are more minority-friendly than the people if disliked minorities are affected, but the threat of a popular vote can reduce this difference. By means of a fuzzy set-QCA, the present study shows that minority rights were instituted mostly in the context of total revisions of cantons' constitutions when there was no debate about a possible failure in the referendum. In contrast, restrictive recognition rules were passed when the threat of a popular vote had been discussed in the parliamentary debate. Islam played a special role yet it only led to more restrictive rules when MPs feared that the people would refuse a proposition which would make the recognition of Muslim communities easier.

CLÉMENT, Caty (2001), A QCA Analysis of State Collapse (unpublished manuscript).

CLIFFORD, Elizabeth and GRAN, Brian (2000), "Immigrant Flows: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Economic, Demographic and Political Influences", paper presented at : American Sociological Association (ASA) Meeting, Panel on "Comparative Studies of International Migration in the World System", ??,

CLÉMENT, Caty (11.2003), State Collapse: a Common Causal Pattern? A Comparative Analysis of Lebanon, Somalia, and the Former-Yugoslavia, Louvain-la-Neuve, Université catholique de Louvain.

---------- (2004), "Un modèle commun d'effondrement de l'Etat? Une AQQC du Liban, de la Somalie et de l'ex-Yougoslavie", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 35-50.

---------- (2005), "Failing States, Failing Data: the Case for QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis)", paper presented at : Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association, Qualitative Methods Panel, Washignton D.C.,

---------- (2005), "The Nuts and Bolts of State Collapse: Common Causes and Different Patterns?", COMPASSS Working Paper, 32, 34p.
Abstract:This paper is the result of a research project designed to address two questions: ‘why’ do states collapse and ‘how’ do they collapse? Rather than testing existing theories (largely non existent), this paper suggests a new model. The first issue, the causes of state collapse, has been the focus of in depth research over the recent years. The bulk of the comparative work came through large N studies focussing on long-term structural conditions and often resulting in long shopping lists of indicators. Instead, this research develops a concise set of four core causes (rather than indicators) based on in-depth country research (small n) using ‘soft’ qualitative data (quantitative being often unreliable and constraining the research).

COOPER, Barry (2005), "Applying Ragin's Crisp and Fuzzy Set QCA to Large Datasets: Social Class and Educational Achievement in the National Child Development Study", Sociological Research Online, 10, 2,
Abstract:The paper explores the use of Charles Ragin's Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) in both its crisp and fuzzy set versions in the study of the relations between social class origin, sex, 'ability' and subsequent educational achievement. The work reported is part of a larger ongoing project which is employing QCA to compare these relations within two birth cohorts. Here data are used from the British National Child Development Study, i.e. from children born in 1958. The paper has a methodological focus, bringing out the strengths but also the difficulties that arise when employing QCA with a large dataset of this type. In particular, the problem of calibrating membership in fuzzy sets in a context where detailed case knowledge is not available is illustrated. It is also shown how the use of gradually increasing thresholds with Ragin's fs/QCA software can bring out the relative importance of various factors in accounting for achievement. The QCA-based analysis suggests that the processes of educational attainment can, at best, only be seen as partly falling under a 'meritocratic' description. It is also hoped that this paper will serve as a useful introduction to the potential of QCA for readers not yet familiar with it.

COOPER, Barry and GLAESSER, J. (2011), "Using Case-Based Approaches to Analyse Large Datasets: a Comparison of Ragin's Fsqca and Fuzzy Cluster Analysis", International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 14, 1 , 31-48.
Abstract: The paper undertakes a comparison of Ragin's fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis with cluster analysis. After describing key features of both methods, it uses a simple invented example to illustrate an important algorithmic difference in the way in which these methods classify cases. It then examines the consequences of this difference via analyses of data previously calibrated as fuzzy sets. The data, taken from the National Child Development Study, concern educational achievement, social class, ability and gender. The classifications produced by fsQCA and fuzzy cluster analysis (FCA) are compared and the reasons for the observed differences between them are discussed. The predictive power of both methods is also compared, employing both correlational and set theoretic comparisons, using highest qualification achieved as the outcome. In the main, using the real data, the two methods are found to produce similar results. A final discussion considers the generalisability or otherwise of this finding.

COOPER, Catherine (1999), Continuity and Change in Mexican Immigrant Parents' Beliefs About Educación and the Path of Life (unpublished manuscript). (Research project (ongoing); abstract at : http://lmri.ucsb.edu/RESDISS/Newsletters.restored/pdf_files/Vol8No3.pdf)
Abstract: Strengthening family-school partnerships remains an unmet priority of school-based initiatives and academic outreach programs, which address school retention and college attendance among Mexican descent students. Thus far, these partnerships have been hampered by inaccurate or incomplete information about Mexican immigrant parents. The proposed study addresses three research questions: 1) What are the beliefs, goals, and guidance strategies of Mexican immigrant parents about education as their children move into adolescence? 2) How do parents' beliefs, goals and guidance strategies for their two children differ and change over this transition? 3) How do children's academic performance and experiences in and outside school during this transition play a role in changing parents' beliefs, goals, and guidance? In the proposed 2-year longitudinal study, 30 Mexican immigrant parents with at least two children, one in the last year of elementary school and one in junior or senior high, will be interviewed as their younger child is completing elementary school and again after completing the first year of junior high. This longitudinal design spans the years when many Latino students begin to experience academic difficulties. Data analyses that link quantitative and qualitative approaches will be conducted, including longitudinal case studies, prediction analysis, and Qualitative Comparative Analysis. Findings will contribute to research, policy, and practice designed to enhance the inclusiveness of family-school partnerships during the challenging years from childhood to adolescence.

COVERDILL, James E. and FINLAY, William (1995), "Understanding Mills Via Mill-Type Methods : an Application of Qualitative Comparative Analysis to a Study of Labor Management in Southern Textile Manufacturing", Qualitative Sociology, 18, 4, 457-478.

COVERDILL, James E., FINLAY, William, and MARTIN, Jack K. (1994), "Labor Management in the Southern Textile Industry : Comparing Qualitative, Quantitative, and Qualitative Comparative Analyses", Sociological Methods and Research, 23, 1, 54-85.

CRESS, Daniel M. and SNOW, David A. (2000), "The Outcome of Homeless Mobilization: the Influence of Organization, Disruption, Political Mediation, and Framing", American Journal of Sociology, 105, 4, 1063-1104.
Abstract:This article contributes to a more systematic understanding of movement outcomes by analyzing how organizational, tactical, political, and framing variables interact and combine to account for differences in the outcomes attained by 15 homeless social movement or-ganizations (SMOs) active in eight U.S. cities. Using qualitative comparative analysis to assess ethnographically derived data on the 15 SMOs, the study highlights the importance of organizational via-bility and the rhetorical quality of diagnostic and prognostic frames for securing outcomes while identifying a contingent relationship be-tween tactics and political environment. The analysis suggests that there are multiple pathways leading to movement outcome attain-ment, and therefore unidimensional rather than combinatorial and interactive approaches are misguided.

CRONQVIST, Lasse (2006), Using Configurational Research to Determine the Conditions of Success of Green Parties (unpublished manuscript).

______ (2007), Using Configurational Research to Determine the Conditions of Succes of Green Parties (unpublished manuscript).

CURCHOD, Corentin (6.2003), "La méthode comparative en sciences de gestion: vers une approche quasi-expérimentale de la réalité managériale", Finance Contrôle Stratégie, 6, 2, 155-177.
Abstract:=Cet article présente une méthode de recherche comparative dépassant le classique clivage entre méthodes qualitatives et quantitatives: la méthode comparative quali-quantitative. Cette méthode vise à rendre compte de la complexité des phénomènes, par des études de cas qualitatives, tout en offrant une technique de traitement des données fondée sur l'algèbre booléenne, qui rend possible, comme les méthodes quantitatives, la généralisation des résultats au-delà des cas observés. Cette méthode de recherche est bien adaptée aux petites populations - c'est-à-dire à un nombre de cas entre 4 et 50 - ce qui est fréquent en sciences de gestion.

CURCHOD, Corentin, DUMEZ, Hervé, and JEUNEMAÎTRE, Alain (2004), "Une étude de l'organisation du transport aérien en Europe : les vertus de l'AQQC pour l'exploration de la complexité", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 85-100.

CURCHOD, Corentin and JEUNEMAÎTRE, Alain (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Governance and Performance of Air Traffic Services Providers in Europe: What Lessons to Be Drawn From Benchmarking Techniques and Comparative Analysis?", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Assessing the Respective Potential of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), Fuzzy Sets and Other Techniques : Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract:European utilities have for long been vertically integrated and controlled by administrations and state owned companies. However, the introduction of liberalisation and separation between service provision and regulation, coupled with change of status of providers, has introduced a new rationale in the governance of utilities industry. In that respect, the case of Air Traffic services is particularly illustrative. Many of the national providers have been separated from the administration and corporatised. Thus in Air Traffic Services, the governance of provision now ranges from pure state owned administration to independently regulated privatisation. Making use of the data base (20 European service providers, 100 variables) different techniques can be applied (regression analysis, qualitative techniques, etc) to highlight the existing relationships between governance and performance and the weight of external factors. The paper will aim at reviewing and making use of them (in particular Correlation vs. Charles Ragin Qualitative Comparative Analysis, QCA vs. Fuzzy sets, and fuzzy sets vs. TOSMANA method) illustrating how, from a unique set of data, different outcomes can be generated with regard to the existing relationships between performance and governance in the field of Air Traffic Services.

DELREUX, Tom (2009), "The EU Negotiates Multilateral Environmental Agreements: Explaining the Agent's Discretion", Journal of European Public Policy, 16, 5, 719-737.
Abstract: Starting from principal-agent theory, this article analyses the conditions under which an EU negotiator enjoys a particular degree of discretion vis-a`-vis the member states during international environmental negotiations. A qualitative comparative analysis of eight EU decision-making processes with regard to international negotiations leading to a multilateral environmental agreement indicates that the compellingness of the international negotiations explains the occurrence of discretion. However, the international compellingness does not provide explanatory power to understand the particular degree of discretion. To understand when an EU negotiator enjoys a high degree of discretion, variables such as preference distributions, information asymmetries and institutional density need to betaken into account.

---------- (2011), The EU As International Environmental Negotiator, Farnham & Burlington, VT, Ashgate.
Abstract: Delreux examines how the EU functions when it participates in international environmental negotiations. In particular, this book looks at the internal EU decision-making process with regard to international negotiations that lead to multilateral environmental agreements. By studying eight such decision-making processes, the book analyses how much negotiation autonomy (or 'discretion') the EU negotiator (the European Commission or the Council Presidency) enjoys vis-a-vis the member states it represents and how this particular degree of discretion can be explained. The book's empirical evidence is based on extensive literature review, primary and semi-confidential document research, as well as interviews with EU decision-makers. It is aimed at a readership interested in EU politics and decision-making, global/multilateral governance, environmental policy science and methodological development of Qualitative Comparative Analysis.

DHILLION, Shivcharn S. and SVARSTAD Hanne (1996), From Plants in the South to Medicines in the North: A Cross-Disciplinary Project on Bioprospecting [Research Programme] (unpublished manuscript).
Abstract: Increasingly, bioprospecting is being seen as a key tool in the management of biological diversity in conformity with the Convention on Biological Diversity. This cross-disciplinary project will investigate whether bioprospecting in different cases and source countries represents a sustainable use of biodiversity. Further, the study will seek to investigate whether bioprospecting is connected to conservation efforts, whether it has developmental effects, and whether it provides local benefits. Emphasis will be placed on seeking explanations of the findings from the methods used by plant collectors and a combination of the following institutional factors: legal principles for bioprospecting and their implementation in source countries; characteristics of the state segments relevant for bioprospecting; the source country's capacity to negotiate specialised contracts in this area competently and skilfully; the manner and degree to which various factors and interests are represented in the decision-making process; legal factors in recipient countries as it may affect the content and flexibility of bioprospecting agreements; and ethics and policies of the bioprospectors. Qualitative comparative analysis will be applied in order to facilitate comparison of different causal conjunctures in a number of cases.

--------- (eds) (2000), Responding to Bioprospecting: From Biodiversity in the South to Medicines in the North. Oslo, Spartacus Forlag. (some information at : http://www.sum.uio.no/bioprospecting.htm)

DI LUCIA, Lorenzo and KRONSELL, Annica (2010), "The Willing, the Unwilling and the Unable. Explaining Implementation of the EU Biofuels Directive ", Journal of European Public Policy, 17, 4, 545-563.
Abstract:In this article we test current knowledge of policy implementation in multi-level governance systems and focus on the case of transport biofuels. The EU biofuel directive is a highly debated case with a disappointing implementation record. We probe a set of implementation hypotheses in a qualitative comparative analysis, offering a systematic comparison of ten member states between 2003 and 2006. The findings show that implementation of the EU biofuels policy is a complex phenomenon where combinations of causal conditions, and not single conditions, produces the outcome. We conclude that implementation is more likely when favourable conditions are present, in agreement with previous studies. Non-implementation, on the other hand, is explained by a dichotomy between the unable ¬ and the unwilling. The lack of willingness exposes to failure even the fittest national system.

DIERKES, Julian B. (2001 (fall)), Teaching Portrayals of the Nation - Postwar History Education in the Germanys and Japan,Princeton University (unpublished). ([Dissertation proposal online at : http://www.princeton.edu/~jdierkes/proposal.html]; abstract of dissertation at : http://www.princeton.edu/~jdierkes/abstracts/diss_summary_0501.pdf)
Abstract:My dissertation will examine the postwar construction of national identity in the educational arena in Japan and the Germanys. Data gathered from secondary school history textbooks and curricula will allow me to classify and compare the portrayal of the nation in the three states over the postwar period. Data on the decision-making processes that lead to particular emphases in textbooks and curricula will help me in developing an organizational model of the content of national identity as it is to be taught in the school. Boolean algebra will aid me in selecting causally important factors for the comparative analysis. The analysis will show that institutionalized conceptions of the nation as well as the institutional configuration of actors involved in educational policy decision-making are associated with a number of alternative substantive outcomes. The dissertation will advance the understanding of the role of actors in institutional political sociology and will advance this approach by applying it to a new subfield and new historical cases. The dissertation will also develop methodological tools for the applicability of Boolean algebra to longitudinal comparisons.

DIMITROVA, Antoaneta and TOSHKOV, Dimiter (2009), "Post-Accession Compliance Between Administrative Co-Ordination and Political Bargaining", European Integration Online Papers-EIOP, 13,
Abstract:This paper explores the relationship between administrative co-ordination of EU affairs at the national level and compliance with EU law. First, we develop two hypotheses about the impact of co-ordination. We expect that the strength of the co-ordination structure (level of centralisation and political support) will improve levels of transposition of EU law. Administrative co-ordination becomes irrelevant, however, for the transposition of EU laws that attain political salience and trigger political opposition. We test these conjectures by an aggregate country-level analysis of transposition rates and a qualitative comparative analysis of eight cases covering two directives. Both analyses support our expectations that strong administrative co-ordination of EU affairs leads to smaller transposition deficits in the aggregate. However, for highly salient directives that touch upon constitutional issues and trigger opposition from political actors outside the executive, administrative co-ordination cannot help.

DIXON, Marc, ROSCIGNO, Vincent J., and HODSON, Randy (2004), "Unions, Solidarity, and Striking", Social Forces, 83, 1, 3-33.
Abstract:Organizational resources and group solidarity are central foci in literature on social movements generally and worker insurgency specifically. Research, however, seldom deals with both simultaneously and their potential interrelations. In this article, we examine the complex relationships between union organization and worker solidarity relative to strike action. We draw on a data set of 133 content-coded workplace ethnographies and use a combination of qualitative comparative analysis and more standard statistical techniques. Consistent with expectations, results suggest union presence and worker solidarity, in and of themselves, have little meaningful association with strikes. Rather, it is their co-presence that bolsters strike likelihood. Conversely, a lack of union presence in combination with a lack of collective mobilization history diminishes overall strike potential. We conclude by discussing the implications of our argument and findings for more general social movement perspectives as well as prior work dealing specifically with unions, solidarity, and collective resistance.

DO, Phu Hai, "Do Grassroots Institutions Facilitate the Poor's Participation? A Combination of Comparative Analysis (CsQCA) of Vietnamese Communes and Regression Analysis", paper presented at : COMPASSS Intimate Seminar, Louvain-la-Neuve,

DOWNEY, J. and STANYER, J. (Dec 2010), "Comparative Media Analysis: Why Some Fuzzy Thinking Might Help.Applying Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis to the Personalization of Mediated Political Communication", European Journal of Communication, 25, 4, 331-347.
Abstract: This article examines the benefits of fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) for comparative media research. It shows the advantages of fuzzy set theoretic thinking in examining the causes of a major feature of contemporary political communication research, namely personalization. The article has three parts. The first is a critique of the method adopted by Hallin and Mancini, a generally laudable and highly influential recent contribution to comparative media analysis. The second is a brief introduction to fsQCA. The third demonstrates the method's usefulness by investigating the personalized character of mediated political communication.

DREZNER, Daniel W. (1999), The Sanctions Paradox: Economic Statecraft and International Relations , Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

DUCKLES, Beth M., HAGER, Mark A., and GALASKIEWICZ, Joseph (2005), "How Nonprofits Close. Using Narratives to Study Organizational Processes" (Elsbach, Kimberly D.), Advances in Qualitative Organizational Research, Greenwich, CT, Information Age Publishing, Inc., pp. 169-203.

DUMONT, Patrick (6.12.2003), "Agenda-Setting: Party Manifestos and the Media "2"", paper presented at : Réunion Agenda-setting à Anvers, Anvers,

DUMONT, Patrick and BÄCK, Hanna (2003), "Why So Few, and So Late? Green Parties and the Question of Governmental Participation", COMPASSS Working Paper, 11, 44p.
Abstract: Green parties have been represented in the parliaments of European Union countries since 1981 but only a few have entered national governments, and this has not happened until recently. Using a data-set comprising 44 government formation opportunities where Greens were represented in parliament, we show that parties involved in these bargaining situations were more office-oriented than earlier studies argued. As Green parties are less office-seeking than other parties, this general tendency for office-seeking behaviour in government formation may partly account for the scarcity of Greens in government. Further, we test a number of hypotheses derived from theories that account for the specific nature of Green parties in terms of their office-, policy- and vote-seeking orientations. We find that Greens participate in government when they have lost at least one election, when they are identified as a clear electoral threat by the main party of the left and when the policy-distance between the Greens and the main left party is small. As these simultaneous conditions only materialized recently, and in a few countries, we argue that our analysis, which is the first comparative and multivariate test on this question, helps explaining the scarcity and the delay of Green governmental participation.

---------- (2006), "Why So Few and Why So Late? Green Parties and the Question of Governmental Participation", European Journal of Political Research, 45, S, 35-68.

DUSA, Adrian (Jan 2010), "A Mathematical Approach to the Boolean Minimization Problem", Quality & Quantity, 44, 1, 99-113.
Abstract:Any minimization problem involves a computer algorithm. Many such algorithms have been developed for the boolean minimizations, in diverse areas from computer science to social sciences (with the famous QCA algorithm). For a small number of entries (causal conditions in the QCA) any such algorithm will find a minimal solution, especially with the aid of the modern computers. However, for a large number of conditions a quick and complete solution is not easy to find using an algorithmic approach, due to the extremely large space of possible combinations to search in. In this article I will demonstrate a simple alternative solution, a mathematical method to obtain all possible minimized prime implicants. This method is not only easier to understand than other complex algorithms, but it proves to be a faster method to obtain an exact and complete boolean solution.

DY, S. M., GARG, P., NYBERG, D., DAWSON, P. B., PRONOVOST, P. J., MORLOCK, L. et.al. (Apr 2005), "Critical Pathway Effectiveness: Assessing the Impact of Patient, Hospital Care, and Pathway Characteristics Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Health Services Research, 40, 2, 499-516.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To qualitatively describe patient, hospital care, and critical pathway characteristics that may be associated with pathway effectiveness in reducing length of stay.
DATA SOURCES/STUDY SETTING: Administrative data and review of pathway documentation and a sample of medical records for each of 26 surgical critical pathways in a tertiary care center's department of surgery, 1988-1998.
STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective qualitative study. DATA COLLECTION/ABSTRACTION METHODS: Using information from a literature review and consultation with experts, we developed a list of characteristics that might impact critical pathway effectiveness. We used hypothesis-driven qualitative comparative analysis to describe key primary and secondary characteristics that might differentiate effective from ineffective critical pathways.
PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: " All 7 of the 26 pathways associated with a reduced length of stay had at least one of the following characteristics: (1) no preexisting trend toward lower length of stay for the procedure (71 percent), and/or (2) it was the first pathway implemented in its surgical service (71 percent). In addition, pathways effective in reducing length of stay tended to be for procedures with lower patient severity of illness, as indicated by fewer intensive care days and lower mortality. Effective pathways tended to be used more frequently than ineffective pathways (77 versus 59 percent of medical records with pathway documents present), but high rates of documented pathway use were not necessary for pathway effectiveness.
CONCLUSIONS: Critical pathway programs may have limited effectiveness, and may be effective only in certain situations. Because pathway utilization was not a strong predictor of pathway effectiveness, the mechanism by which critical pathways may reduce length of stay is unclear.

DYCHAWY-ROSNER, Irena, EKLUND, M., and ISACSSON, A. (2001), "Caring Dynamics As Perceived by Staff Supporting Daily Occupations for Developmentally Disabled Adults", Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 15, 2, 123-132.
Abstract:This study addresses the issue of what direct care staff experience as a hinder or a help when supporting daily occupations among people with mental retardation. The data was collected by means of a questionnaire consisting of open-ended questions about the staff's perceived work experience. The respondents (n=81), corresponding to 96% of all care staff employed in a geographically defined care area in southern Sweden, worked with various day activity units supporting the daily occupations of their clients. An inductive method using qualitative comparative analysis and coding paradigm described by Strauss have been used as approach for the elaboration and the analysis of the data. The results suggests that clinical actions are rooted in the dynarnic relationship that exist between the respondents' perceived realities of practice and their application. The staff´s experiences were captured as a series of actions and reactions in a variety of ways involving relations, interactions and interventions vis-a-vis their clients (the process of practice). This process is based on two areas: the phases of support actions and the dimensions of this support actions. The process of practice can take the form of increasing or failing to develop of the staff´s competence to create interventions with mentally retarded persons. For example, when difficulties are experienced was a tendency to fix on certain dimensions in the attitude of the staff, e.g. a negative and conflict-laden pattern of communication. It was suggested that to develop the quality of caregivers' interventions when supporting the daily activities of their clients, effort should be put into the identification of the structures embodied in the process of practice which increase the competence of staff.

EBBINGHAUS, Bernhard and VISSER, Jelle (1998), "When Institutions Matter: Union Growth and Decline in Western Europe, 1950-95", MZES Arbeitspapiere / Working Papers, I/30, 1-37.
Abstract:During the early post-war period, Western trade union movements grew in membership and achieved an institutionalized role in industrial relations and politics. However, during the last decades, many trade unions have seen their membership decline as they came increasingly under pressures due to the social, economic and political changes. This article reviews the main structural, cyclical and institu-tional factors explaining union growth and decline. Concentrating on Western Europe, the empirical analysis compares cross-national union density data for 13 countries over the first period (1950-75) and for 16 countries over the second, "crisis" period (1975-95). The quantitative correlation and re-gression analysis indicates that structural and cyclical factors fail explain the level and changes in unionization across Western Europe, while institutional variables fare better. In a second, qualitative comparative analysis, the authors stress the need to explain cross-national differences in the level or trend of unionization by a set of institutional arrangements: the access of unions to representation in the workplace, the availability of a selective incentive in the form of a union-administered unemploy-ment scheme, recognition of employers through nation-wide and sectoral corporatist institutions, and closed shop arrangements for forced membership. Such institutional configurations support member-ship recruitment and membership retention, and define the conditions for the strategic choice of trade unions in responding to structural social-economic, political and cultural changes.

EDER, C. (Mar 2010), "A Key to Success? Are There Conditions for Successful Ballot Votes in the German Lander?", Politische Vierteljahresschrift, 51, 1, 43-67.
Abstract: Between 1990 and 2005, eleven referenda took place in the German Lander. Of these initiatives, seven were accepted by the voters, while the remaining four were unsuccessful. This pattern raises the question as to whether certain factors lead to increased likelihood of success at the ballot-box. Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), the following analyses demonstrate that, taken separately, none of the conditions examined in this article have positive effects on the chances of popular endorsement. Instead, a certain combination of conditions seems to be associated with successful initiatives.

EDWARDS, Sean J. A. (2003), Military History of Swarming (unpublished manuscript).

Egan, Patrick, "The Political Viability of U.S. Social Policies, 1981-1996." (2002):2002.

EGEA-DE HARO, Alfonso (2001), "Globalization Within National Contexts: Elusive Concepts", paper presented at : Oslo Summer School in Comparative Social Science Studies 2001: "Comparative Methodology", University of Oslo, Norway,
Abstract: The impact of globalization upon national political contexts is considered as one of the main puzzles in social research. The discussion is mostly centred on how to measure that influence of the globalization process. Consequently, the methodological design of the research is one of the key points at stake. This paper suggests that a combination of quantitative and a historical insitutionalism elements is required in order to analyse the impact of globalisation upon national contexts. The difference between quantitative and historical insitutionalism methodology concerns the level of parsimony required in the social scientific explanation. In other word, while quantitative approach is prone to minimize the explanatory variables of the phenomenon analysed, historical institutionalism provides a plentiful setting of potential explanatory variables interactions but, at the same time, it is difficult to generalise the findings due to research is case driven. Quantitative studies overcome that withdraw of institutionalism, but quantitative analysis lack causality analysis and the definition of the property space of investigation. The scope of the analysis suggested is prone to a first exploration based on a theoretically scope of the units of analysis involved in the research. This perspective based on comparative methodology permits to take into consideration the relationship between variables and the homogeneity of cases as configurations of such variables.

ELIASON, Scott R., STRYKER, Robin, and TRANBY, Eric (2008), "The Welfare State, Family Policies, and Women's Labor Force Participation: Combining Fuzzy-Set and Statistical Methods to Assess Causal Relations and Estimate Causal Effects ", in KENTWORTHY, Lane and HICKS, Alexander (eds), Method and Substance in Macrocomparative Analysis, New Hampshire, Palgrave Macmillan, pp. 135-195.

EMMENEGGER, Patrick (2008), "Religion Und Arbeitnehmerschutzgesetzgebung : Eine Fuzzy Set-Analyse", Swiss Political Science Review, 14, 1, 85-130.

EMMENEGGER, Patrick (May 2011), "Job Security Regulations in Western Democracies: a Fuzzy Set Analysis", European Journal of Political Research, 50, 3, 336-364.
Abstract: This article uses fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to examine the determinants of job security regulations - here understood as restrictions on hiring and firing - in Western democracies. Unlike previous studies, the analysis reveals three different paths to high levels of job security regulations. The first path covers the Southern European state capitalist countries. In these countries, conflicts between forces pushing for liberal democracy and groups alienated from modernisation have led to high levels of statism and crowded out other societal actors. Job security regulations were enacted relatively early in order to provide social security by means available to the state. Due to fragmented welfare states, job security regulations have remained one of the most important pillars of the social protection regime. The second path covers the Continental European managed capitalist countries and is also characterised by high levels of statism. In these countries, repressive governments employed a stick-and-carrot strategy to weaken the labour movement and tie the loyalties of the individual to the state. After the Second World War, these countries developed corporatist intermediation systems and encompassing and generous welfare states. Finally, the third path covers the Nordic managed capitalist countries. This path is characterised by a high degree of non-market coordination, strong labour movements and few institutional veto points. In the Nordic managed capitalist countries, job security regulations traditionally have been subject to collective agreements. However, in the 1960s, labour movements succeeded in pushing through the public legislation of job security despite opposition from employers' associations. Methodologically, this article demonstrates that cross-national differences in the level of job security regulations can only be explained if the methods used allow for complex causality. In contrast, methods which focus on 'net effects' do not offer satisfactory explanations for the cross-national differences in the level of job security regulations.

ENGELI, Isabelle (08.28.2008), "Controversies and Reproductive Policies: A Fuzzy-Set Analysis of Policies in Abortion and Assisted Reproductive Technologies in France and Switzerland", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Annual Meeting of the APSA, Boston,

---------- (2012, forthcoming), "Policy Struggle on Reproduction: Doctors, Women, and Christians", Political Research Quarterly,

EPSTEIN, Jessica, DUERR, Daniel, KENTWORTHY, Lane, and RAGIN, Charles C. (2008), "Comparative Employment Performance: A Fuzzy-Set Analysis", in KENTWORTHY, Lane and HICKS, Alexander (eds), Method and Substance in Macrocomparative Analysis, New Hampshire, Palgrave Macmillan, pp. 67-90.

FINK-HAFNER, Danica and HAFNER-FINK, Mitja (November 2009), "The Determinants of the Success of Transitions to Democracy", Europe-Asia Studies, 61, 9, 1603-1625.
Abstract:The article provides an analysis of the determinants of the success of transitions to democracy based on a combination of qualitative comparative analysis of Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Macedonia; and hierarchical clustering. The key finding is that one can reveal configurations of several factors which jointly determine either continuous or disrupted transitions to democracy.

FISCHER, Jorn, KAISER, André, and ROHLFING, Ingo (September 2006), "The Push and Pull of Ministerial Resignations in Germany, 1969-2005", West European Politics, 4, 29, 709-735.
Abstract:When and why are cabinet ministers forced out of office? We argue that ministerial resignations cannot be understood as mechanistic consequences of serious personal or departmental errors as the classical responsibility hypothesis implies. Rather, they follow a systematic political logic. Cabinet ministers have to resign whenever the prime minister perceives the political costs of a minister staying in office to be higher than the benefits of keeping the status quo. We test this argument with resignation events in Germany in the period 1969 to 2005. Based on detailed data collection, we find 111 resignation events, i.e. serious public discussions about a cabinet minister's future, 14 of which ended in resignation. These data are analysed employing statistical as well as Qualitative Comparative Analysis based on Boolean algebra to detect patterns of ministerial resignations.

FISCHER, Manuel (2011 (forthcoming)), Entscheidungsstrukturen in Der Schweizer Politik Zu Beginn Des 21. Jahrhunderts,Université de Genève (unpublished).

---------- (2011 (forthcoming)), "Social Network Analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis: Their Mutual Benefit for the Explanation of Policy Network Structures", Methodological Innovations Online,
Abstract:By switching the level of analysis and aggregating data from the micro-level of individual cases to the meso- or macro-level, quantitative data can be analyzed within a more case-based approach. This paper presents such an approach in two steps: In a first step, it discusses the combination of Social Network Analysis (SNA) and Qualitative-Comparative Analysis (QCA) in a sequential mixed-methods research design. In such a design, quantitative social network data on individual entities and their relations at the micro-level are used to describe the structure of the network that these entities constitute at the meso-level. Different network structures can then be compared by a QCA. This strategy allows adding an element of causal explanation to SNA, while SNA-indicators allow for a systematic description of the cases to be compared by QCA. Because mixing methods can be a promising, but also a risky endeavor, the methodological part also discusses the possibility that underlying assumptions of both methods could clash. In a second step, the research design presented beforehand is applied to an empirical study of policy network structures in Swiss politics. Through a comparison of 11 policy networks, causal paths that lead to either a conflictual or a consensual policy network are identified and discussed. The analysis reveals that different theoretical factors matter and that multiple conjunctural causation is at work. Based on both the methodological discussion and the empirical application, it seems that a combination of SNA and QCA or any combination of a quantitative and a qualitative method is highly beneficial to research projects in the social sciences.

FISCHER, Manuel, SCIARINI, Pascal, and TRABER, Denise (08.27.2009/08.28.2009), "Explaining Conflict Structures in Swiss Decision-Making Processes. A Combination of SNA and QCA", paper presented at : ASNA Applications of Social Network Analysis Conference, Zurich,

FORD, E. W., DUNCAN, W. J., and GINTER, P. M. (Jan 2005), "Health Departments' Implementation of Public Health's Core Functions: an Assessment of Health Impacts", Public Health, 119, 1, 11-21.
Abstract:Objectives. The purpose of this article was to investigate the relationship between state health agencies' adherence to the recommendations of the United State's Institute of Medicine's (IOM) report, 'The Future of Public Health', and changes in their populations' health. Study design. Data were abstracted from agencies' plans, budgets, annual reports, etc. spanning a 5-year period. A comprehensive change in population health measure over the same period was drawn from the UnitedHealth Group's annual survey. Methods. Configurations, based on public health core functions, were established using linear regression and qualitative comparative analysis. The dependent variable was a holistic measure of change in a state population's health status. Results. State agencies that most completely adopted a public health model emphasizing assessment, assurance and policy development also experienced significant improvements in their population health measures. Conclusions. State agencies that more completely adopted the IOM's public health core functions had a concomitant improvement in their populations' health statuses. Further research to explore if there is a causal link between adoption of the core functions and positive health impacts is warranted.

FOWERAKER, J. and LANDMAN, Todd (1997), Citizenship Rights and Social Movements: a Comparative and Statistical Enquiry, Oxford, Oxford University Press.

FREITAG, Markus and SCHLICHT, Raphaela (2009), "Educational Federalism in Germany: Foundations of Social Inequality in Education", Governance: An International Journal of Policy, Administration, and Institutions, 22, 1, 47-72.
Abstract: This article applies Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis to examine how sub-national education systems affect the extent of social inequality in education within the German federal states. Variations in educational outcomes between the federal states can be primarily attributed to the strict educational decentralization in Germany. We examine four conditions of regional education systems presumed to be relevant for the extent of social inequality in education: the availability of early childhood education, the development of all-day schools, the onset of tracking to different school types, and the degree of tripartition in secondary education. Altogether, we find systematic relationships between the variation of sub-national education systems and the extent of social inequality in education. The results indicate that well-developed early childhood education is necessary for a low degree of educational inequality. However, educational inequality is not directly related to partisan and socioeconomic determinants.

FUJITA, Taisuke (07.15.2006/07.16.2006), "Explaining the Determinants of External Aggressiveness in Trade Policy: the Use of the Dispute Settlement Institution in the GATT", paper presented at : International Conference on Comparative Social Sciences, Tokyo, Japan,

--------- (2007), "External Aggressiveness and Internal Restraining. Causal Multiplicity in the Determinants of the Use of the Dispute Settlement in the GATT/WTO", [Article Submitted for Publication],

FUJITA, Taisuke (2009), "Developed and Democratic Countries' Policy-Making on Dispute Settlement in the GATT/WTO: Exploring Conjunctural and Multiple Causations by Comparing QCA and Regression Analysis", Sociological Theory and Methods, 24, 2, 181-202.

FÉRON, Elise and RIHOUX, Benoît (11.21.2007), "Peace Keeping and Intervention Policies : Mapping Policies, Evaluating Their Impact", paper presented at : Seminar at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Department of Political Science, Jerusalem,

GHERGHINA, S. (Fal-Win 2009), "The Helping Hand: the Role of the EU in the Democratization of Post-Communist Europe", Romanian Journal of Political Science, 9, 2, 65-79.
Abstract:Two decades after the collapse of communism, there are major differences in the extent of democratization within the Iron Curtain countries. Aware of the complex mechanism to trace possible causes for such a variation, this study uses qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to test the influence of nine international and domestic factors in influencing this process in 20 out of 29 post-communist countries. The evidence indicates that, out of all considered potential explanations, the perspective of the EU accession and a constant economic development are the primary propellers that induce democratization in the region. These quantitative results support and complement the literature that emphasizes the increased role played by the EU promise in the democratization process of the region.

GHERGHINA, S. and JIGLAU, G. (2011), "Explaining Ethnic Mobilisation in Post-Communist Countries", Europe-Asia Studies, 63, 1, 49-76.
Abstract: The complex dynamics of inter-ethnic relations in post-communist countries leads to a puzzle: why do some ethnic minorities mobilise to obtain political representation whereas others do not? We use qualitative comparative analysis to capture complex causal patterns explaining the formation of ethnic parties and to analyse the combined effect of social, economic and political variables. Our article bridges a significant gap in the existing literature that usually focuses on simple explanations for the existence of ethnic parties. The analysis reveals that the political mobilisation of ethnic minorities is explained by institutional elements often underemphasised in existing theories and research.

GIUGNI, Marco and YAMASAKI, Sakura (2009), "The Policy Impact of Social Movements: a Replication Through Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Mobilization, 14, 4, 467-484.
Abstract:This article reanalyzes the data of a previous study on the policy impact of antinuclear, ecology, and peace movements in three countries with the aim of replicating its findings. Our ultimate goal is to assess whether and to what extent the reliance on different techniques yields similar or contradictory results on the same subject matter. The author of the previous study has used a regression approach to time-series analysis. We use Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to replicate the findings of that study. Specifically, we test the two main hypotheses that can be drawn from what the author has called the joint-effect model of social movement outcomes: 1) the policy impact of social movements is conditioned by the presence of powerful allies within the institutional arenas, the presence of a favorable public opinion, or (even better) both factors at the same time; and 2) the policy impact of social movements is more likely when movements address issues and policy domains that have a low degree of saliency. In addition, we consider a further aspect that is present in the study upon which we based our analysis, but which has not been the object of a clear hypothesis: the comparison of the policy impact of social movements across countries. Our analysis confirms to a large extent the findings arrived at through time-series analysis, as they confirm the explanatorypower of the joint-effect model of social movement outcomes and the varying impact of different movements on public policy.

GJOLBERG, Maria (2007), "The Origin of Corporate Social Responsibility: Global Forces or National Legacies? ", COMPASSS Working Paper, 47, 59p.
Abstract:This article explores the relative importance of global forces and national political-economic institutions for companies’ inclination and ability to engage in initiatives promoting Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The globalist hypothesis postulates the CSR efforts of a given company as a function of necessities dictated by the global market place: strong anti-globalisation and anti-corporate sentiments create a need for a positive reputation in order to obtain a “social licence to operate”. The institutionalist hypothesis postulates the CSR efforts of a given company as a function of institutional factors in the national, political-economic system: companies based in certain political economic systems have comparative institutional advantages for success in CSR. The hypotheses are examined quantitatively by testing an index of national CSR-performance against a wide variety of political-economic indicators. The final analysis, based on Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), reveals causal heterogeneity and indicates two separate roads leading to CSR success.

GLAESSER, Judith (2008), "Just How Flexible Is the German Selective Secondary School System? A Configurational Analysis", International Journal of Research & Method in Education, 31, 2, 193-209.

GLAESSER, Judith, GOTT, R., ROBERTS, R., and COOPER, B. (Aug 2009), "The Roles of Substantive and Procedural Understanding in Open-Ended Science Investigations: Using Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis to Compare Two Different Tasks", Research in Science Education, 39, 4, 595-624.
Abstract: We examine the respective roles of substantive understanding (i.e., understanding of factual knowledge, concepts, laws and theories) and procedural understanding (an understanding of ideas about evidence; concepts such as reliability and validity, measurement and calibration, data collection, measurement error, the ability to interpret evidence and the like) required to carry out an open-ended science investigation. Our chosen method of analysis is Charles Ragin's Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis which we introduce in the paper. Comparing the performance of undergraduate students on two investigation tasks which differ with regard to the amount of substantive content, we demonstrate that both substantive understanding and an understanding of ideas about evidence are jointly involved in carrying out such tasks competently. It might be expected that substantive knowledge is less important when carrying out an investigation with little substantive demand. However, we find that the contribution of substantive understanding and an understanding of ideas about evidence is remarkably similar for both tasks. We discuss possible reasons for our findings.

GLATMAN-FREEDMAN, Aharona, COHEN, Mary-Louise., NICHOLS, Katherine A., PORGES, Robert F., SALUDES, Ivy R., STEFFENS, Kevin et.al. (Nov 2010), "Factors Affecting the Introduction of New Vaccines to Poor Nations: a Comparative Study of the Haemophilus Influenzae Type B and Hepatitis B Vaccines", Plos One, 5, 11, 1-9.
Abstract: Background: A major effort to introduce new vaccines into poor nations of the world was initiated in recent years with the help of the GAVI alliance. The first vaccines introduced have been the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) and the hepatitis B (Hep B) vaccines. The introduction of these vaccines during the first phase of GAVI's operations demonstrated considerable variability. We set out to study the factors affecting the introduction of these vaccines. The African Region (AFRO), where new vaccines were introduced to a substantial number of countries during the first phase of GAVI's funding, was selected for this study. Methodology/Principal Findings: GAVI-eligible AFRO countries with a population of 0.5 million or more were included in the study. Countries were analyzed and compared for new vaccine introduction, healthcare indicators, financial indicators related to healthcare and country-level Governance Indicators, using One Way ANOVA, correlation analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA). Introduction of new vaccines into AFRO nations was associated primarily with high country-level Governance Indicator scores. The use of individual Governance Indicator scores, as well as a combined Governance Indicator score we developed, demonstrated similar results. Conclusions/Significance: Our study results indicate that good country-level governance is an imperative pre-requisite for the successful early introduction of new vaccines into poor African nations. Enhanced support measures may be required to effectively introduce new vaccines to countries with low governance scores. The combined governance score we developed may thus constitute a useful tool for helping philanthropic organizations make decisions regarding the type of support needed by different countries to achieve success.

GOODWIN, Jeff (2001), "Between Success and Failure: Persistent Insurgencies [Chapter 7]", in GOODWIN, Jeff, No Other Way Out: States and Revolutionary Movements, 1945-1991, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, pp. 217-255.

GOODWIN, Jeff (2001), No Other Way Out: States and Revolutionary Movements, 1945-1991, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

---------- (6.21.2001/6.24.2001), "The Limits of Repression: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Counterinsurgency", paper presented at : Conference on "Mobilization and Repression: What We Know and Where We Should Go From Here?", University of Maryland Conference Center,

GORDIN, Jorge (2001), "The Electoral Fate of Ethnoregionalist Parties in Western Europe: a Boolean Test of Extant Explanations", Scandinavian Political Studies, 24, 2, 149-170.

GOULD, Roger V (2003), "Uses of Network Tools in Comparative Historical Research", in MAHONEY, James and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 241-269.

GRAN, Brian (2003), "Charitable Choice Policy and Abused Children: the Benefits and Harms of Going Beyond the Public-Private Dichotomy", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, 23, 11, 80-125.
Abstract:Charitable Choice Poilicy, the heart of President Bush's Faith-Based Initiative, is the direct government funding of religious organizations for the purpose of carrying out government programs. The Bush presidential administration has called for the application of Charitable Choice Policy to all kinds of social services. Advocates for child-abuse victims contend that the Bush Charitable Choice Policy would further dismantle essential social services provided to abused children. Others have argued Charitable Choice Policy is unconstitutional because it crosses the boundary separating church and state. Rather than drastically altering the U.S. social-policy landscape, this paper demonstrates that the Bush Charitable Choice Policy already is in place for child-abuse services across many of the fifty states. One reason this phenomenon is ignored is due to the reliance on the public-private dichotomy for studying social policies and services. This paper contends that relying on the public-private dichotomy leads researchers to overlook important configurations of actors and institutions that provide services to abused children. It offers an alternate framework to the public-private dichotomy useful for the analysis of social policy in general and, in particular, Charitable Choice Policy affecting services to abused children. Employing a new methodological approach, fuzzy-sets analysis, demonstrates the degree to which social services for abused children match ideal types. It suggests relationships between religious organizations and governments are essential to the provision of services to abused children in the United States. Given the direction in which the Bush Charitable Choice Policy will push social-policy programs, scholars should ask whether abused children will be placed in circumstances that other social groups will not and why.

---------- (08.13.2005), "A Comparative Analysis of Children’s Rights: Introducing The Children’s Rights Index ", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the 2005 Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association , Philadelphia,
Abstract: Little systematic, international research has been conducted on the welfare of children and laws and policies affecting their well being. Important studies on children’s well being exist, but these studies tend to focus on single countries. Consequently, researchers tend to concentrate on countries recognized for their human rights problems. Yet little comparative research has examined the impact of laws and policies on children’s interests and rights. Without comparative research, however, social scientists cannot make claims about levels of children’s rights or what explains variation in children’s rights. This paper makes two important contributions. First, it introduces the Children’s Rights Index (CRI). We believe this index is the first international measure of children’s rights; we provide results on 190 countries. This index is significant because it allows researchers to compare levels of children’s rights across countries. Second, this paper seeks to explain various scores on the CRI. It employs ordinary least squares regression analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to consider the explanatory power of legal institutions, human rights, country wealth, and demographic structures on levels of children’s rights. QCA is an innovative analytic technique based on Boolean algebra. QCA is especially useful for examining combinations of actors, interests, and resources associated with some theories of policy innovation. Using QCA we assess heterogeneity and context to examine the various configurations of legal, political, economic, and demographic traits that characterize countries that have high levels of children’s rights compared to countries that do not.

GRAN, Brian, GANNON, Lynn, SCHROEDER, Casey, and ALIBERTI, Dawn (9.3.2004/9.7.2004), "Explaining Children's Rights: An International Analysis of the Children's Rights Index", paper presented at : 2004 Annual Meeting of Research Committee 19, Paris,

GRASSI, Davide (2003), Democratic Consolidation in Contemporary Political Regimes : the Case of Latin America (unpublished manuscript).

GRASSI, Davide (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Democratic Consolidation in 12 Latin American Countries", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract:Studies on democratic consolidation, especially those dealing with the impact of economic development, have often been constructed as encompassing comparative analyses, comprising a large number of countries from different parts of the globe and periods of time extending over several decades. Yet, the specific effects of certain factors, operating for considerable numbers of countries and different historical phases, may disappear when more precisely defined spatial and temporal contexts are considered. Thus, whenever we are interested in particular regions and time spans, the findings of empirical investigations extending to other countries and periods of time need to be judged with caution and often disaggregated and analyzed at a lower level. Accordingly, this article seeks to ascertain which factors have facilitated the survival of 12 Latin American democracies, established or re-established between the 1950s and the 1980s. Our findings show that democratic consolidation is the result of particular configurations of time sensitive facilitating factors. In particular, the endurance of the latest democracies has been crucially determined by legitimacy conditions and by the levels of repression exercised under the previous authoritarian regimes. In addition, when compared to some of the most entrenched Latin American democracies, installed in previous democratic waves and surviving for several decades to our days, the latest democratic regimes appear quite original. For instance, strong and cohesive party systems were fundamental in explaining the continued existence of democracies established or re-established in earlier democratic waves, but do not play a similar role in the last one. Thus, the specific way the preceding political record, both democratic and authoritarian, and the organization of political representation affect democratic survival varies considerably over time.

---------- (2004), "La survie des régimes démocratiques : une AQQC des démocraties de la "troisième vague" en Amérique du Sud", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 17-33.

---------- (10.01.2004/10.02.2004), "The Study of New Democracies in Latin America and Elsewhere: Reflections on the 25th Anniversary of the "Transitions Project" at the Woodrow Wilson Center", paper presented at : Washington Conference, Washington,

GRECKHAMER, T. (Jan 2011), "Cross-Cultural Differences in Compensation Level and Inequality Across Occupations: a Set-Theoretic Analysis", Organization Studies, 32, 1, 85-115.
Abstract: Compensation level and compensation inequality, as central aspects of modern organizations, are vital for organization studies. Previous research has investigated various aspects of compensation systems, but few studies have taken a cross-cultural perspective. I address this need for cross-cultural research by studying compensation and culture utilizing a configurational approach, investigating combinations of cultural and macro-environmental attributes associated with differences in compensation level and compensation inequality. I apply fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to analyze country-level data encompassing four occupational groups (cleaners, secretaries, mid-level managers, and senior managers) from 44 countries. Findings show configurations of cultural dimensions, development, and welfare state that are sufficient for high compensation level and compensation inequality among these four occupations. Implications for future cross-cultural research on compensation are discussed.

GREENBERG, Greg, MOUNT, Jeanine, and BRANDON, William (11.12.2000/11.16.2000), "Protecting Medicaid Mental Health Safety-Net Providers: Analysis of 29 States' Contracting Practices", paper presented at : 128th Annual Meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA), Boston,
Abstract: Concern about the viability of mental health "safety-net" providers has led many states to include protections for them in state Medicaid contracts with managed care organizations (MCOs). Most commonly states include contract provisions that encourage MCOs to include safety-net providers in their networks, thus protecting them from much of the competition associated with managed care. We used qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) to examine the role of four aspects of state's public health care delivery systems in influencing whether Medicaid-MCO contracts had these provisions. QCA is based on the logic and techniques of Boolean algebra and allows one to identify the multiple and conjunctural causes of an event as well as the necessary and sufficient conditions for an event to occur. QCA is particularly helpful for examining situations with complex patterns of interactions among the specified conditions. Using QCA we examined (1) stakeholders' roles (consumers and providers participation in the design and monitoring of state health systems); (2) state political climate and public attitudes about government provision of health services; (3) insulation of mental health services from non-mental healthcare (measured by carve-out status and existence of an independent implementing mental health agency); (4) bargaining strength of MCOs vis-a-vie state Medicaid agencies. The last was investigated by examining such factors as the state's need for greater numbers of MCOs and what the state could provide MCOs in terms of market size and reimbursement. This analysis used multiple sources to obtain data for twenty-nine states.

GRENDSTAD, Gunnar (2007), "Causal Complexity and Party Preference", European Journal of Political Research, 46, 1, 121-149.
Abstract: Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) overlaps logistic regression in explaining events, but challenges the latter's lack of accounting for causal omplexity.QCA has only to a limited degree been applied to large-N studies or individuals as cases and has not incorporated the logic of probability.QCAand logistic regression are compared with respect to logic, procedure and outcome. Political orientations from five national surveys are adapted to the requirements of the two methods. The methods are demonstrated on explanations of individuals' party preferences.QCA and logistic regression converge and overlap in identifying degrees of causal complexity, in ascertaining model significance and in identifying antecedents to party preference. Results differ in degree, not in kind.A slightly more nuanced picture emerges using the QCA approach, whereas logistic regression delivers greater parsimony. Choice of method(s) is not arbitrary. QCA can easily be used on any large-N research problem. It should apply probability when appropriate.

GRIFFIN, Larry J., BOTSKO, Christopher, WAHL, Ana-Maria, and ISAAC, Larry W. (1991), "Theoretical Generality, Case Particularity: Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Union Growth and Decline", International Journal of Comparative Sociology, 32, 110-136.

GRIFFIN, Larry J., BOTSKO, Christopher, WAHL, Ana-Maria, and ISAAC, Larry W. (1991), "Theoretical Generality, Case Particularity: Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Trade Union Growth and Decline", in RAGIN, Charles C. (ed), Issues and Alternatives in Comparative Social Research, Leiden, E.J. Brill, pp. 110-136.

GRIMM, Heike (2006), "Entrepreneurship Policy and Regional Economic Growth. Exploring the Link and Theoretical Implications", in RIHOUX, Benoît and GRIMM, Heike (eds), Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis, New York, Springer, pp. 123-144.

GROSSMAN, Emiliano and WOLL, Cornelia (05.17.2007/05.19.2007), "Associations Matter: Reconsidering the Political Strategies of Firms in the European Union", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the EUSA Tenth Biennial International Conference, Montreal, Canada, HAGAN, John and HANSFORD-BOWLES, Suzanne (2005), "From Resistance to Activism: the Emergence and Persistence of Activism Among American Vietnam War Resisters in Canada", Social Movements Studies, 4, 3, 231-259.

HAGGERTY, Terry R. (1992), "Unravelling Patterns of Multiple Conjunctural Causation in Comparative Research: Ragin's Qualitative Comparative Method", Journal of Comparative Physical Education and Sport, 14, 19-27.

HALL, Charles (1998), "Institutional Solutions for Governing the Global Commons: Design Factors and Effectiveness", Journal of Environment and Development, 7, 2, 86-114.
Abstract:Rather than relying on authoritative political structures to solve the dilemmas of governing the global commons, institutional perspectives show that governance can occur in situations where, at first glance, individual incentives for short-term economic gain seem to proscribe collective action. In this regard, a theoretical framework drawing on the study of common-pool resources explains effective institutional governance as the combination of internal design features and exogenous issue-area factors. This study raises the question of which institutional design principles provide for effective solutions for governing the commons. It does so in the context of international fisheries commissions. These institutions are often less than adequate conservers offish. Through an analysis of institutional goals and objectives, this study identifies some design features of fisheries institutions associated with this lack of conservation effectiveness, while at the same time identifying the institutional sources of the continuity afforded to participants by these enduring institutions.

HARKREADER, Steve and IMERSHEIN, Allen-W (1999), "The Conditions for State Action in Florida's Health-Care Market", Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 40, 2, 159-174.
Abstract: Despite lack of confidence in government agencies to operate a nationalized health-care system in the United States, government agencies have significantly influenced the distribution and financing of health-care services in the market. Using the State of Florida as a case study, we examine the conditions under which a state health-care agency can consistently influence health-care market arrangements. We examined records from Florida's legislative sessions between 1965 and 1993 focusing on 27 legislative initiatives to involve the state's health-care agencies in the health-care services market. Using Boolean qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), we examined th conditions that facilitated or inhibited legislative policy initiatives for state action in Florida's health-care services market. The cohesiveness of state administrative agency and legislative leadership is of primary importance. Fragmented interests among health-care providers and fiscally legitimate policy positions, Whether those of state agencies or health-care providers, are important enabling factors for state action.

HARTMANN, C. and KEMMERZELL, J. (2010), "Understanding Variations in Party Bans in Africa", Democratization, 17, 4, 642-665.
Abstract:The article is interested in the main reasons for the emergence and enforcement of party bans in sub-Saharan Africa. While the introduction of legal provisions that allow for the banning of particularistic political parties is the standard on the African continent, few countries actually use these provisions and actually deny registration or ban existing parties. We use qualitative comparative analysis to compare the introduction of party bans and the patterns of implementation across all sub-Saharan countries. Our analysis shows that structural conditions do matter. Countries that did not introduce legal provisions to ban political parties combine a British colonial background and a stronger tradition of multi-party democracy. With regard to the decision to actually use these provisions our analysis shows the interaction of two conditions to be decisive: Countries which have experienced ethnically motivated violence in the past and which are at the same time 'liberalizing' their regimes rely on party bans to restrict political party competition.

HAWORTH-HOEPPNER, S. (2000), "The Critical Shapes of Body Image: The Role of Culture and Family in the Production of Eating Disorders", Journal of Marriage and the Family , 62, 1, 212-227.
Abstract:Although research has pointed to the influence of culture and family in the etiology of earing disorders, few, studies have examined how these influences conjoin in this process. This research explores how the family mediates cultural ideas about thinness and how the family conveys these messages to family members. Using a grounded theory approach, open-ended interviews were conducted with 32 White, middle-class women (with and without eating disorders) on the topic of body image and eating problems. In conjunction with this method, qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was also performed to identify family characteristics, and their specific combinations, that were associated with eating disorders. The findings indicate that a critical family environment, coercive parental control, and a dominating discourse on weight in the household are salient conditions, and their specific configurations are discussed in relationship to current theoretical conceptualizations regarding the influences of culture and family in the production of eating disorders.

---------- (Feb 2000), "The Critical Shapes of Body Image: the Role of Culture and Family in the Production of Eating Disorders", Journal of Marriage and the Family, 62, 1, 212-227.
Abstract: Although research has pointed to the influence of culture and family in the etiology of earing disorders, few, studies have examined how these influences conjoin in this process. This research explores how the family mediates cultural ideas about thinness and how the family conveys these messages to family members. Using a grounded theory approach, open-ended interviews were conducted with 32 White, middle-class women (with and without eating disorders) on the topic of body image and eating problems. In conjunction with this method, qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was also performed to identify family characteristics, and their specific combinations, that were associated with eating disorders. The findings indicate that a critical family environment, coercive parental control, and a dominating discourse on weight in the household are salient conditions, and their specific configurations are discussed in relationship to current theoretical conceptualizations regarding the influences of culture and family in the production of eating disorders.

HAYNES, Philip, HILL, Michael, and BANKS, Laura (Feb 2010), "Older People's Family Contacts and Long-Term Care Expenditure in Oecd Countries: a Comparative Approach Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Social Policy & Administration, 44, 1, 67-84.
Abstract: In recent. decades there has been a suggestion that public and private long-term care (LTC) expenditure might be replacing traditional family care for older people. The decline of family contact is known to be more advanced in some OECD countries than others, with southern Europe identified as where family contact is still strong. This article explores at a country level whether there is ail association between levels of expenditure oil long-term care and the availability of family contacts. Qualitative Comparative Analysis is used as a comparative method, so as to use national quantitative indicators with a small sample of countries. An association between higher levels of family, contact and lower levels of expenditure on LTC is suggested, bill it is weakened by a number of, untypical cases. Countries that defy this relationship have government care policies that seek to promote informal social care through the family contact that continues to be available. Austria, Canada, Great Britain and Japan are discussed in this context.

HEIKKILA, Tanya (9.24.2001), "Institutional Boundaries and Common-Pool Resource Management: a Comparative Analysis of Water Management Agencies in California", paper presented at : Workshop in Political Theory and Policy Analysis, Indiana University, Bloomington,

---------- (2004), "Institutional Boundaries and Common-Pool Resource Management: a Comparative Analysis of Water Management Programs in California", Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 23, 1, 97-117.
Abstract:Policymakers and academics often identify institutional boundaries as one of the factors that shape the capacity of jurisdictions to manage natural resources such as water, forests, and scenic lands. This article examines two key bodies of literature - common-pool resource management theory and local public economy theory - to explain how the boundaries of political jurisdictions affect natural resource management. Two empirical methods were used to test hypotheses from the literature, using a study of water management programs in California. The results demonstrate that institutional boundaries that coincide with natural resources are likely to be associated with the implementation of more effective resource management programs. At the same time, where jurisdictions can control through coordination, they can also facilitate more effective resource management where jurisdictions do not match resource boundaries. © 2004 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.

HEIKKILA, Tanya and ISETT, Kimberley (11.2.2000/11.4.2000), "Groundwater Governance and Conjunctive Water Management in California: an Institutional Analysis", paper presented at : National Research Conference of the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management, Seattle,

HELLSTRÖM, Eeva (1996), "Environmental Forestry Conflicts, Forest Policies and the Use of Forest Resources - Recent Developments in USA, Germany, France, Sweden, Finland and Norway", European Forest Institute Working Paper (Joensuu, Finland), 7, 1-72.

---------- (1998), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis: A Useful Tool for Research into Forest Policy and Forestry Conflicts", Forest Science, 44, 2, 254-265.

HELLSTRÖM, Eeva and RANTALA, Kati (8.2000), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis. Opening New Paths for Social Research in Forestry", paper presented at : 21st IUFRO World Congress, Technical Session "Interface Between Forest Science and Policy Making", Kuala Lumpur,

HELLSTRÖM, Eeva (2001), Conflict Cultures. Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Environmental Conflicts in Forestry, Silva Fennica Monographs, 2, Helsinki, The Finnish Society of Forest Science / The Finnish Forest Research Institute. (online at : http://www.metla.fi/silvafennica/sfmono.htm or http://ethesis.helsinki.fi/julkaisut/maa/talou/vk/hellstrom/)
Abstract: This research compares environmental conflicts in forestry in seven cases during 1984-1995. The cases include Finland, France, Minnesota USA, Norway, Pacific Northwest USA, Sweden and West Germany. The research is based on the notion that each society has its own ‘cultural’ ways of producing and managing environmental conflicts in forestry, depending on the social, political, economic, and resource characteristics of the society. The purpose of the study is to describe these conflict cultures, to identify and analyse the societal aspects that impact them, and to discuss the implications of understanding conflicts as cultural phenomena. The research is based on focused interviews of multiple actors related to forest management and protection. For the data analysis, a ‘hermeneutic’ (interpretative and understanding) approach is introduced to Qualitative Comparative Analysis, the use of which has been dominated by causal applications. As a result of the analysis, models of conflict cultures and conflict management strategies are constructed. The model of conflict cultures indicates three basic dimensions of conflict culture, and defines how they are related to each other. These dimensions are mild vs. intense conflicts, separatist vs. co-operative relations between actors and stability vs. change in forest resource policy and use. The model of conflict management strategies indicates to what extent the different cases place emphasis on interactive vs. institutional conflict management, and the management of conflicting (sub)cultures within the society vs. the conflict culture of the society.

HERALA, Nina (2004), Use of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) in Comparative Law. Comparison of the Legal Regulation of Sustainable Development in Physical Planning in Denmark and Finland, Vaasa, Finland, Vaasan Yliopisto.

HERRMANN, Andrea and CRONQVIST, Lasse (2006), "Contradictions in Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA): A Way Out of the Dilemma", EUI Working Paper SPS No. 2006/06,

HICKS, Alexander M. (1994), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Analytical Induction: the Case of the Emergence of the Social Security State", Sociological Methods and Research, 23, 1, 86-113 .

HICKS, Alexander M., MISRA, Joy, and NAH NG, Tang (1995), "The Programmatic Emergence of the Social Security State", American Sociological Review, 60, 3, 329-350.

HINO, Airo (4.13.2004/4.18.2004), "Electoral Fate of New Parties: Effects of Government Participation in Comparative Perspective ", paper presented at : Joint Session of the ECPR, Workshop "New Parties in Government", Uppsala, Sweden,

---------- (4.13.2004/4.18.2004), The Emergence and Success of New Parties in Western Europe. A Comparative Analysis of 15 Democracies, 1950-2004, Colchester, University of Essex, Department of Government (unpublished).

HINO, Airo (6.3.2008/6.5.2008), "Interaction Effects Meet QCA. Towards a Future Discussion", paper presented at : Expert Roundtable on the Study of Strategies of Social Change Using the Method of Qualitative Comparatvie Analysis (QCA), Manchester,

HINO, Airo and BUELENS, Johan (2008), "The Electoral Fate of New Parties in Government ", in DESCHOUWER, Kris (ed), New Parties in Government. In Power for the First Time, London, Routledge,

HODSON, Randy (2004), "A Meta-Analysis of Workplace Ethnographies - Race, Gender, and Employee Attitudes and Behaviors", Journal of Contemporary Ethnography , 33, 1, 4-38.
Abstract: Workplace ethnographies suggest many hypotheses about the effects of organizational characteristics on employee attitudes and behaviors. These hypotheses, however, are difficult to evaluate by considering each ethnography individually. The current article uses qualitative comparative analysis of content-coded data from the full population ofworkplace ethnographies to provide a fuller evaluation of the lessons these ethnographies have to offer The hypothesis that women are happy and quiescent workers receives only limited support. Women actually evidence less satisfaction and pride in their work than men, but they are more cooperative and less conflictual than men. Autonomy is the most consistent determinant of positive workplace attitudes, a finding that is consistent with survey-based research. These findings thus both confirm and condition prior conclusions about the workplace and suggest the importance of systematically compiling the findings of workplace ethnographies to evaluate and benchmark conclusions based on ethnographic analysis.

HODSON, Randy and ROSCIGNO, Vincent J. (2004), "Organizational Success and Worker Dignity: Complementary or Contradictory ?", American Journal of Sociology, 110, 3, 672-708.

HODSON, Randy, ROSCIGNO, Vincent J., and LOPEZ, S. H. (Nov 2006), "Chaos and the Abuse of Power - Workplace Bullying in Organizational and Interactional Context", Work and Occupations, 33, 4, 382-416.
Abstract: Bullying is a significant workplace problem-a fact highlighted by a growing body of social science literature. Its causes, however, have received little systematic attention beyond analyses of the personality attributes of bullies. This article explores the roles of relational power and organizational chaos in the emergence of workplace bullying. The analysis of content-coded organizational ethnographies integrates quantitative and qualitative techniques and draws heavily from the ethnographies themselves. Results suggest that the interplay of relational powerlessness and organizational chaos gives rise to bullying. In contrast, where there is a disjuncture between organizational and relational factors, the extent of bullying is determined by underlying, context-specific aspects of power. These results suggest a need for organizations not only to protect the weak, but also to eliminate chaos-chaos that creates openings for the abuse of power.

HUNTJENS, P, PAHL-WOSTL, C, RIHOUX, B, FLACHNER, Z, NETO, S, KOSKOVA, R et.al. (2008), "The Role of Adaptative and Integrated Water Management (AIWM) in Developing Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Dealing With Floods and Droughts - A Formal Comparative Analysis of Eight Water Management Regimes in Europe, Asia, and Africa ", Institute of Environmental Systems Research,

HUNTJENS, P., PAHL-WOSTL, C., RIHOUX, Benoît, SCHLUETER, M., FLACHNER, Z., NETO, S. et.al. (2011, forthcoming), " Adaptative Water Management and Policy Learning in a Changing Climate. A Formal Comparative Analysis of Eight Water Management Regimes in Europe, Africa, and Asia", Environmental Policy and Governance,
Abstract:This article provides an evidence-based and policy relevant contribution to understanding the phenomenon of policy learning and its structural constraints in the field of river basin management, in particular related to coping with current and future climatic hazards such as floods and droughts. This has been done by a formal comparative analysis of eight water management regimes, by using multi-value QCA, focusing on the relationship between regime characteristics (as explanatory variables) and different levels of policy learning (as output value). This research has revealed the importance of the socio-cognitive dimension, as an essential emerging property of complex adaptive governance systems. This socio-cognitive dimension depends on a specific set of structural conditions, in particular, better integrated cooperation structures in combination with advanced information management are the key factors leading towards higher levels of policy learning. Furthermore, this research highlights a number of significant positive correlations between different regime elements, thereby identifying a stabilizing mechanism in current management regimes, and this research also highlights the necessity of fine-tuning centralized control with bottom-up approaches.

HUNTJENS, Patrick, "The Role of Adaptative and Integrated Water Management (AIWM) in the Developing Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Dealing With Floods and Droughts", paper presented at : COMPASSS Intimate Seminar, Louvain-la-Neuve,

HYTTINEN, Pentti, NISKANEN, Anssi, and OTTITSCH, Andreas (2000), "New Challenge for the Forest Sector to Contribute to Rural Development in Europe", Land Use Policy, 17, 3, 221-232.
Abstract:Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to study the possibilities for employment and income generation in the border regions of Europe. Based on quantitative analysis, regional variation in forest resource and socio-economic structures in EU countries was considered wide. However, on the basis of national-level data, country groups that have similar characteristics in forestry, forestproducts trade and socio-economics could be identified. These groups prove a valuable aid in arriving at suggestions for a more general applicability of the results of regional-level analyses. Qualitative comparative analysis was used in looking for support for the hypotheses on regional development. In conclusion of the qualitative analysis, the development efforts should be put on the approaches that utilise the local characteristics the best, and special attention should be paid to the human resources.

IDIART, Alma (1998), "Stable Democracies in Latin America? Advancing Rueschemeyer, Stephens and Stephens's Analysis for the Latin American Cases ", paper presented at : Southern Sociological Society Annual Meeting, ??,
Abstract:This paper attempts to further Rueschemeyer, Stephens, and Stephens's (1992) comparative historical analysis of democratization and theory building for their Latin American cases by using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) as a technique for the implementation of analytical induction (Hicks 1994). For early waves of democratization two paths are identified. One is defined by (moderate) non-mining export sectors aided by clientelistic parties. The other is constituted by the same sectoral configuration aided by elite contestation. For latter waves, three alternative configurations are defined. For all these three configurations, given the presence of political parties during the second democratic period the combination of two of the following three factors allows for second wave stable democracies: 1) the absence of industrialization preceding democratization processes; 2) the presence of strong mechanisms of elite contestation (under the form of electoral contestation); and 3) the antecedent of previously stable democracies.

INABA, Akihide (2001), "Enzyo Koudou wo Sokusin/Yokusei suru Zyouken : Meta Bunseki heno Ouyou [Application of Boolean approach to Meta Analysis : Using Helping Behavior Data]", in KANOMATA, Nobuo, NOMIYA, Daishiro, and HASEGAWA, Keiji (eds), Shituteki Hikaku Bunseki [Qualitative Comparative Analysis], Kyoto, Mineruva Syobo, pp. 130-147.

ISHIDA, Atsushi, YONETANI, Miya, and KOSAKA, Kenji (2006), "Determinants of Linguistic Human Rights Movements: an Analysis of Multiple Causation of LHRs Movements Using a Boolean Approach", Social Forces, 84 , 4, 1937-1955.
Abstract: We examine the social background of movements for linguistic human rights by way of QCA analysis. Linguistic human rights have been a focus of interests widely among scholars, but no sustained effort was done to see determinants of the social background of movements for the rights. We chose candidate factors such as diversity of languages within a country, literacy rate, population size, national income as an index of affluence, and existence of constitution supporting the rights to explain the occurrence of social movements. We collected and created data in proper form for 157 countries in the world, which was subject to QCA analysis. Our conclusion is that the economic affluence and perhaps the educational level play greater roles for linguistic minority people to assert their human rights. An explicit formula will be shown and discussed in the main text.

JACKSON, Gregory (2005), "Employee Representation in the Board Compared: a Fuzzy Sets Analysis of Corporate Governance, Unionism and Political Institutions", Industrielle Beziehungen, 3, 12, 28.

--------- (2006), "Employee Representation in the Board Compared: a Fuzzy Sets Analysis of Corporate Governance, Unionism and Political Institutions", COMPASSS Working Paper, 36, 28p.
Abstract: Why do employees have rights to representation within corporate boards in some countries, but not in others? Board-level codetermination is widely considered a distinctive feature of coordinated or nonliberal models of capitalism. Existing literature stresses three sets of explanations for codetermination rooted in corporate governance, union strength and political systems. The paper compares data from 22 OECD countries using the QCA method (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) and fuzzy sets approach to explore necessary and sufficient conditions for board-level codetermination. The results show two central pathways toward codetermination both rooted primarily in union coordination and consensual political systems, but with divergent implications for corporate governance systems in Scandinavia and Germany.

JACOBS, Jörg (2003), "Des Kaisers neue Kleider? Fuzzy-Set-Sozialwissenschaften und die Analyse von mittleren Ns", in PICKEL, Susanne, PICKEL, Gert, LAUTH, Hans-Joachim, and JAHN, Detlef (eds), Vergleichende Politikwissenschaftliche Methoden. Neue Entwicklungen und Diskussionen, Wiesbaden, Westdeutscher Verlag, pp. 135-150.

JAHN, Detlef (1993), New Politics in Trade Unions : Applying Organization Theory to the Ecological Discourse on Nuclear Energy in Sweden and Germany, Aldershot, Dartmouth Publ.

JANG, Dong-Ho (2009), "Significance of Variations Between Income Transfers and Social Care Services Development", Journal of Comparative Social Welfare, 25, 1, 37-48.
Abstract: This paper examines cross-national variations in two major welfare state policies: income transfers and social care services. In comparative social policy research it has been recently acknowledged that policy development of income transfers differs from that of social care services. However, there has been little discussion of how to explain such variations. In this paper, it is argued that explaining such a between-policy variation requires an investigation of competing causal forces within and between economy, socio-demography, politics and institutions. Using qualitative comparative analysis, this paper scrutinizes between-policy variations among 11 countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development in terms of social spending level. The results suggest that the causal combination of demographic ageing and local fiscal autonomy determines the between-policy variations.

JANOSKI, Thomas and HICKS, Alexander M. (eds) (1994), The Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

JOHNSON, Linda S. (1999), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis: Applications to City/County Consolidation", paper presented at : Southern Political Science Meeting, Savannah,

JOHNSON, Linda S. (2006), Constitutional Change in Local Governance: An Exploration of Institutional Entrepreneurs, Procedural Safeguards, and Selective Incentives, Thallahasse, FSU.
Abstract:This dissertation extends research in local governance constitutional change in a new direction and integrates several models of institutions to explain patterns of municipal charter change. This approach presents a new understanding of institutions, actors, and change in the municipal charter. One of the most important implications of this study is that multiple perspectives on the dynamics of local governance can be incorporated into a testable theory. This interconnection provides a comprehensive and dynamic perspective of the competition for governance rules. This study differs from other studies of local constitutional change in five ways. First, the study concentrates on change in the most embedded level of the local institution, the local constitution. Second, it builds on Maser’s (1998) transaction resource theory of local constitutional change by incorporating selective incentives for maintenance or change and including rejected proposed rules. Third, the study views all forms of charter change as constitutional change which allows the theory to include both charter revision and the more radical city-county consolidation as a continuum of local constitutional change. Fourth, the study integrates entrepreneurs and demanders of the status quo into the theory of competition for governance rules and procedural safeguards, extending Ostrom’s Institutional Analysis Framework (1990). Finally, it moves entrepreneur studies to the constitutional level and argued that actors try to induce change in order to lock their preferences into the system. Two methods are used to provide empirical evidence of maintenance or change in the system. The first method, case studies allow in-depth explorations of complex entities for evidence of dynamics, but can be difficult in comparing multiple complex systems. The second method, Qualitative Comparative Analysis, a Boolean method, integrates complex multiple characteristics of system complexity with in-depth characteristics of diverse entities to explore the phenomenon. The central findings of the study focus on the choice of rules and the actors. In proposed consolidation charters, the electoral system rules that provide a safeguard for representation will be supported by minorities. Property owners, farmers, and business groups support rules that reduce the costs of government and protect their access to the governance structure.

JOHNSON, Linda S. and FEIOCK, Richard C. (2001 ??), "City-County Consolidation : a Qualitative Comparative Approach". (available at : http://www.fsu.edu/~spap/archive/m29.pdf)

KAEDING, Michael (2007), Better Regulation in the European Union: Lost in Translation or Full Steam Ahead? The Transposition of EU Transport Directives Across Member States, Leiden, Leiden University Press.

KANGAS, Ollie (1991), The Politics of Social Rights : Studies on the Dimensions of Sickness Insurance in 18 OECD Countries, Stockholm, Swedish Institute for Social Research.

--------- (1994), "The Politics of Social Security : on Regressions, Qualitative Comparisons, and Cluster Analysis", in JANOSKI, Thomas and HICKS, Alexander M. (eds), The Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, pp. 346-364.

KANOMATA, Nobuo (2001), "Saibankan no Keireki: Kojin Deita heno Ouyou [Career of Judges: Application [of QCA] to Personal Data]", in KANOMATA, Nobuo, NOMIYA, Daishiro, and HASEGAWA, Keiji (eds), Shituteki Hikaku Bunseki [Qualitative Comparative Analysis], Kyoto, Mineruva Syobo, pp. 63-78.

KATZNELSON, Ira (2003), "Periodization and Preferences: Reflections on Purposive Action In Comparative Historical Social Science ", in MAHONEY, James and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 270-303.

KIM, Kyo-seong. and LEE, Yeonjung (2008), "A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Strategies for an Ageing Society, With Special Reference to Pension and Employment Policies", International Journal of Social Welfare, 17, 225-235.
Abstract: The primary purpose of this study is to typify the respondent strategies of the OECD countries based on the interconnected structure of income and employment guarantees. More specifically, this article seeks to typify welfare policies into four types (welfare-to-work, welfare emphasis, labour emphasis, market emphasis) based on the leniency of the pension system and active state intervention in employment security. With the resultant four types, this article then places them as the dependent variable while incorporating per capita GDP, aged dependency ratio, pension maturity level, union density, constitutional structure index and degree of decommodification as causal variables. Through this process, this article aims to derive the decisive variable for each type through qualitative comparative analysis.

KING, Robert L. and WOODSIDE, Arch G. (2000), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Travel and Tourism Purchase-Consumption Systems", Tourism Analysis, 5, 105-111.
Abstract:A purchase-consumption system (PCS) is the sequence of mental and observable steps a consumer undertakes to buy and use several products for which some of the products purchased lead to a purchase sequence involving other products. Some researchers recommend the use of qualitative comparative analysis (i.e., the use of Boolean algebra) to create possible typologies and then to compare these typologies to empirical realities. Possible types of streams of trip decisions from combinations of five destination options with six travel mode options and four accommodation categories, three accommodation brands, five within-area route options, and four in-destination area visit options result in 7200 possible decision paths. The central PCS proposition is that several decisions within a customer's PCS are dependent on prior purchases of products that trigger these later purchases. In this article, four additional propositions are presented for examination in future research. To examine the propositions and the usefulness of the PCS framework for tourism research, qualitative, long interviews of visitors to an island tourism destination (the Big Island of Hawaii) were conducted. The results include strong empirical support for the five propositions. Several suggestions for future research are offered.

KISER, Edgar, DRASS, Kriss A., and BRUSTEIN, William (1995), "Ruler Autonomy and War in Early Modern Western Europe", International Studies Quarterly, 39, 109-138.

KITCHENER, Martin, BEYNON, Malcolm, and HARRINGTON, Charlene (2002), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Public Services Research: Lessons From an Early Application ", Public Management Review , 4, 4, 485-504 .
Abstract:This article introduces the qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) method, provides a detailed description of an early application in US public management research and draws lessons from the experience. In methodological terms, we show that QCA requires coding decisions that influence outcomes significantly and emphasize that this secondary data analysis technique be used in conjunction with primary methods in order to consider issues of process. The substantive findings from our application in a study of state-level barriers to policy diffusion indicate the potential of QCA as a systematic approach to the identification of linkages between causal factors that emerge as important to case study participants.

KITTEL, Bernhard (1997), "Causes of Bargaining Trends in Industrial Relations: the Impact of Structural, Cyclical, and Political Factors in a Comparative Perspective", in KROPIVNIC, Samo, LUKSIC, Igor, and ZAJC, Drago (eds), Conflicts and Consensus. Pluralism and Neocorporatism in New and Old Democracies at the Region, Ljubljana, Slovenian Political Science Association, pp. 225-252.

Kittel, Bernhard, Herbert Obinger, and Uwe Wagschal, "Determinanten der Konsolidierung und Expansion des Wohlfahrtsstaates im internationalen Vergleich." (2000): 34 pp. 2000.

---------- (2000), "Wohlfahrtsstaaten im internationalen Vergleich. Politisch-institutionelle Faktoren der Entstehung und Entwicklungsdynamik", in OBINGER, Herbert and WAGSCHAL, Uwe (eds), Der “gezügelte” Wohlfahrtsstaat: Sozialpolitik in Australien, Japan, Schweiz, Kanada, Neuseeland und den Vereinigten Staaten, Frankfurt/M, Campus Verlag, pp. 329-364.

KOENIG-ARCHIBUGI (01.2004), "Explaining Government Preferences for Institutional Change in EU Foreign and Security Policy", International Organization, 54, 1, 137-174.
Abstract: Some member states of the European Union (EU) want a supranational foreign and security policy while other member states oppose any significant limitation of national sovereignty in this domain. What explains this variation? Answering this question could help to understand better not only the trajectory of European unification but also the conditions and prospects of consensual political integration in other regional contexts and territorial scales. The main research traditions in international relations theory suggest different explanations. I examine the role of relative power capabilities, foreign policy interests, Europeanized identities, and domestic multilevel governance in determining the preferences of the fifteen EU member governments concerning the institutional depth of their foreign and security policy cooperation. I find that power capabilities and collective identities have a significant impact, but the effect of ideas about the nature and locus of sovereignty, as reflected in the domestic constitution of each country, is particularly remarkable.

KOENIG-ARCHIBUGI, Mathias (2004), "Explaining Government Preferences for Institutional Change in EU Foreign and Security Policy", International Organizations, 58, 137-174.

KOGUT, Bruce (12.2000), "The Transatlantic Exchange of Ideas and Practices: National Institutions and Diffusion", Les Notes de l'IFRI, 26, 3, 7-46. (online at : http://jonescenter.wharton.upenn.edu/papers/2000/wp00-13.pdf)

KOGUT, Bruce (2010), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Social Science Data", in MORGAN, Glenn, CAMPBELL, John, CROUCH, Colin, PEDERSEN, Ove Kai, and WHITLEY, Richard (eds), The Oxford Handbook of Comparative Institutional Analysis , Oxford, Oxford University Press, pp. 139-179.
Abstract:Introduction Classical Model of the Nineteenth Century Charles Ragin and Multiple Conjunctural Analysis: Configurations Counterfactuals Counterfactuals, Paul Tetlock, and Lars-Erik Cederman Counterfactuals and Gary King Comparison to Statistical Approaches: Example of Varieties of Capitalism Criticism of Qualitative Comparative Analysis Fuzzy Set Logic Multi-level Analysis Statistical Approaches: Multi-level Analysis and the Ecological Fallacy Looking Forward: Mechanisms and Simulation.

KOGUT, Bruce, MACDUFFIE, John P., and RAGIN, Charles C. (2004), "Prototypes and Strategy: Assigning Causal Credit Using Fuzzy Sets", European Management Review, 1, 114-131.

KOGUT, Bruce and RAGIN, Charles (01.2004), "Exploring Complexity When Diversity Is Limited: Nations As Interpretations and Their Institutions As Possible Configurations", in ? (?), Do Facts Matter in Elaborating Theories?p. 55 pp.

KOGUT, Bruce and RAGIN, Charles C. (2006), "Exploring Complexity When Diversity Is Limited: Institutional Complementarity in Theories of Rule of Law and National Systems Revisited", European Management Review , 3, 44-59.

KOOLE, Karin and VIS, Barbara (09.02.2010/09.03.2010), "Working Mothers and the State: How to Explain the Cross-Government Variation in Maternal Employment Supporting Policies?", paper presented at : Paper Prepared for the 8th ESPAnet Conference, Budapest,
Abstract: Over the last years, the level of spending on maternal employment supporting policies has risen in most countries. The variation across governments in this level remains substantial though. How to account for this variation? Drawing on the critical mass literature, we argue that empirically show that a critical mass of at least 15 per cent of women legislators is necessary for high levels of spending on an important maternal employment supporting policy: parental leave benefits. We test this hypothesis with a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) of the governments from 12 OECD countries between 1980 and 2003 (n = 55). The analysis shows that a critical mass of women legislators is indeed necessary for high levels of spending on parental leave benefits. This condition is not sufficient, though. The presence of corporatism, low economic openness, high economic growth and leftist partisanship or rightist partisanship are INUS conditions Individually Nonredundant (that is, Necessary) part of a Unnecessary but Sufficient (combination of) condition(s) for high levels of spending on these benefits. By assessing the influence of a critical mass of women, and other conditions, on an important policy supporting the level of maternal employment, this study contributes to the comparative welfare state literature in general and the literature on new social risks in particular.

KRAUSE, Philipp (2009), "A Leaner, Meaner Guardian? A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Executive Control Over Public Spending", German Development Institute - Deutsches Institut Für Entwicklungspolitik Discussion Paper, 22/2009,
Abstract:Finance ministries are not often studied. The literature on fiscal institutions has so far focused on the causes of centralization of budgetary control in the ministry of finance, while the budget reform literature studied the shift from traditional micro-budgetary controls to modern macrobudgetary controls. Neither literature can fully explain why only some countries followed the lead of early New Public Management reformers and adopted a strong macro-budgetary regime. In this paper, I use fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis to understand these reforms in a group of 22 countries. I find that the variation can only be explained by a combination of external pressure due to fiscal stress and the preferences of officials, which in turn are shaped by organizational culture.

KROGER, M. (2011), "Promotion of Contentious Agency As a Rewarding Movement Strategy: Evidence From the Mst-Paper Industry Conflicts in Brazil", Journal of Peasant Studies, 38, 2, 435-458.
Abstract: The recent scholarship on social movement outcomes has called for explanations about how movements influence economic outcomes. This article demonstrates in practice how a dynamic and relational approach, coupled with a Bourdieuian analysis of social, symbolic, and territorial space, can be utilized in explaining the influence of movements in contentious politics around investment projects. Based on participant observation and comparison across the Brazilian Landless Movement (MST) groups in areas of paper industry expansion, I assess the different movement strategies and their influence on pulp project outcomes. I reinterpret the ideal 'MST model' as constructed by specific strategies promoting contentious agency: organizing and politicizing, campaigning by heterodox framing, protesting, networking, and embedded autonomy vis-a-vis the state. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis comparing the expansion of 13 pulp holdings between 2004-2008 shows how these strategies influence investment pace. When both contentious and conventional strategies were used, movements managed to slow pulpwood plantation expansion.

KROOK, Mona Lena (2005), "Comparing Methods for Studying Women in Politics: Statistical, Case Study, and Qualitative-Comparative Techniques", paper presented at : Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association, Washington DC,

---------- (2007), "Comparing Methods for Studying Women in Politics: Statistical, Case Study, and Qualitative-Comparative Techniques ", [Draft Article],

---------- (09.06.2007/09.08.2007), "Comparing Methods for Studying Women in Politics: Statistical, Case Study, and Qualitative-Comparative Techniques", paper presented at : 4th ECPR General Conference, Panel on "Comparative Research Design and Configurational Methods", Pisa,

---------- (Dec 2010), "Women's Representation in Parliament: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Political Studies, 58, 5, 886-908.
Abstract: In recent years, statistical and case study research has increasingly reached conflicting findings in terms of the factors explaining cross-national variations in the percentage of women elected to national parliaments. To reconcile the conclusions of large-n and small-n research, this article employs qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), a medium-n technique, to study two populations of cases, Western and sub-Saharan African countries. In contrast to work predicated on assumptions of causal homogeneity and causal competition, the study reveals that multiple combinations of conditions lead to higher and lower levels of female representation. This finding corroborates the two guiding principles of QCA, causal combination and equifinality, suggesting that these methods may offer greater leverage than traditional techniques in discerning the various factors facilitating and hindering women's access to political office.

KROPF, Annika (2011), "The Patterns of Economic Diversification in the States of the Gulf Cooperation Council: Natural Resources, Democracy and Islam. Results From an Empirical Comparative Study ", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Middle East PhD Students International Conference, London Middle East Institute, SOAS, London,
Abstract: Scholars of Middle Eastern studies mostly deal with social and political consequences of rentier wealth. (Beck 1993, Pawelka 1993, Schlumberger 2006, Smith 2005, Smith/ Kraus 2005) One of the most prominent issues is the influence of oil wealth on the persistence of autocratic regimes. (Ross 2001, Herb 2002, 2005). The question if oil wealth has an impact on economic growth of the non-oil economy and the mostly empirical analysis of this question, however, is usually left to economists. (Sachs/Warner 1997, 1999, 2001, Neumayer/ Soysa 2005, Neumayer 2004) The latter have tried for decades to prove the negative impact of natural resources on economic growth in regressions of large and heterogeneous samples of countries. The results are mixed and some researchers have come to admit that the resource curse is not an inevitable fate, but rather the result of path dependence (Auty 2010) which is not grasped by regressions. Depending on further circumstances, natural resources may harm or boost the economy. Such a relationship can be analyzed by configurational comparative methods, such as fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). (Rihoux/ Ragin 2008, Ragin 1987) Using fsQCA, I have analyzed the impact of oil wealth and several control variables on economic growth of the non-oil sector (“diversification”) in the states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). This analysis was part of a bigger study based on methodological triangulation: I used regressions of large samples (182 cases), fsQCA analyses of different samples sizes (6, 7 and 25 oil exporting countries) and case studies (of the GCC states). This paper, however, can only dwell on a small part of this study, namely the fsQCA analysis of the small sample of the GCC states.

KVIST, John (2007), "Fuzzy Set Ideal Type Analysis", Journal of Business Research, 60, 474-481.

KVIST, Jon (1999), "Welfare Reform in the Nordic Countries in the 1990s: Using Fuzzy-Set Theory to Assess Conformity to Ideal-Types", Journal of European Social Policy, 9, 3, 231-252. (Reprint can be downloaded from www.sfi.dk)

KVIST, Jon (2000), "Idealtyper og fuzzy mængdelære i komparative studier - nordisk familiepolitik i 1990erne som eksempel ", Dansk Sociologi, 11, 3, 71-94. (Reprint can be downloaded from www.sfi.dk)
Abstract: Ideal types and fuzzy sets in comparative studies – Exemplified by Nordic family policy in the 1990s Fuzzy set theory is a new approach in social science. It allows precise operationalisation of theoretical concepts, configuration of concepts in analytical constructs such as ideal types, and the categorisation of cases in relation to such concepts and analytical constructs. The method is particular well-suited for studies with a medium number of cases that aims to explore diversity, that is the simultaneous study of similarities and differences of a qualitative and quantitative nature. The paper sets out main elements of fuzzy set theory and demonstrates its potential use in an analysis of the recent developments in family policy in the Nordic countries. In relation to an ideal typical Social Democratic family policy model, the type and scope of numerous policy changes are assessed. All countries expand the degree of universality in childcare, and Norway, the most traditional of the Nordic countries, gets in line with the other Nordic countries, whereas benefit generosity Sweden is significantly reduced. Thus, despite differences in the type and scope of change all the Nordic countries can still be said to belong to an ideal typical Social Democratic family policy model, although to a different extent that at the onset of the 1990s. The method has a number of advantages in studies with a medium number of cases where the variable-oriented approach suffer from the Small N problem and an inability in such studies to distinguish between the case-oriented approach from too big a much as in many comparative studies, in particular studies that seek to explore diversity.

KVIST, Jon (2002 (forthcoming)), "Changing Rights and Obligations in Unemployment Compensation: Using Fuzzy Set Theory to Explore Policy Diversity", in SIGG, Roland and BEHRENDT, Christina (eds), Social Security in the Global Village, New Brunswick, Transaction publishers. (Previous version (working paper) can be downloaded from www.sfi.dk)

KVIST, Jon (2003), "Conceptualisation, Configuration, and Categorisation. Diversity, Ideal Types and Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Welfare State Research", COMPASSS Working Paper 2003-15, 15,
Abstract: This paper advances a new method for studying ideal types, fuzzy-set theory, which is a framework that allows a precise operationalisation of theoretical concepts, the configuration of concepts into analytical constructs, and the categorisation of cases. In a Weberian sense ideal types are analytical constructs used as yardsticks to measure the similarity and difference between concrete phenomena. Ideal type analysis involves differentiation of categories and degrees of membership of such categories. In social science jargon, this means analysis involving the evaluation of qualitative and quantitative differences or, in brief, of diversity. Fuzzy set theory provides a calculus of compatibility. It can measure and compute theoretical concepts and analytical constructs in a manner that is true to their formulation and meaning. This paper sets out elements and principles of fuzzy set theory that are useful for ideal type analysis and presents two illustrative examples of how it can be used in comparative studies. The examples concern changing Nordic welfare policies in the 1990s, unemployment and child family policies, and relate to their conformity to predefined ideal typical models.

---------- (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Conceptualisation, Configuration, and Classification Ideal Types and Fuzzy Sets in Social Research", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: This paper advances a new method for studying ideal types, fuzzy-set theory, which is a framework that allows a precise operationalisation of theoretical concepts, the configuration of concepts into analytical constructs, and the categorisation of cases. In a Weberian sense ideal types are analytical constructs used as yardsticks to measure the similarity and difference between concrete phenomena. Ideal type analysis involves differentiation of categories and degrees of membership of such categories. In social science jargon, this means analysis involving the evaluation of qualitative and quantitative differences or, in brief, of diversity. Fuzzy set theory provides a calculus of compatibility. It can measure and compute theoretical concepts and analytical constructs in a manner which is true to their formulation and meaning. This paper sets out elements and principles of fuzzy set theory which are useful for ideal type analysis and presents an illustrative example of how it can be used in comparative studies. The example concerns changing welfare policies and employment performance during the 1990s in a number of Northern European countries and relates to their conformity to predefined ideal typical work-welfare models.

---------- (2006), "Diversity, Ideal Types and Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Welfare State Research", in RIHOUX, Benoît and GRIMM, Heike (eds), Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis, New York, Springer, pp. 167-184.

---------- (2006), "Measuring the Welfare State Concepts, Ideal Types and Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Studies", COMPASSS Working Paper, 40, 28p.
Abstract:Is the glass half-empty? Is it more empty than full? Such questions are often linked to judgements which concern qualitative states and changes in degree and kind. Abound in comparative studies such judgements bring forward issues of how best to conceptualise and measure. In comparative studies of the welfare state they prompt reflections on what constitutes the welfare state, how to operationalise it and how to measure change over time and space. Comparative welfare state research has made significant progress in the theoretical understanding of the welfare state itself, not least due to a dialogue between qualitatively and quantitatively oriented studies (Amenta, 2003). Since 1990, when Gøsta Esping-Andersen published Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalism, a common starting point has been the distinction between different types of welfare state regimes: identifying a liberal, conservative and a social democratic welfare state regime. In short, diversity - the co-existence of similarities and differences - characterises different welfare states. Comparative research however has made much less progress in the measurement of welfare state and welfare state change. A lack of consensus about how to measure either is the main reason why scholars disagree on the direction and magnitude of recent change in social policy, i.e. whether reforms amount to fundamental or marginal change (Clayton and Pontusson, 1998 with Pierson, 1996, or Gilbert, 2002 with Kvist, 1999). This chapter offers an alternative approach to measurement and a very different strategy, that of formulating a new way of going about measurement by using fuzzy sets and axioms in fuzzy set theory. The aim is to advance the application of fuzzy set theory as a new method for conceptualisation and measurement (see Ragin, 2000 for a broad introduction to fuzzy set social science). I argue that the fuzzy set approach is particularly useful for assessing diversity and change across a limited set of cases, and that it can overcome some of the problems typically related to measurement validity and precision. In other words, using fuzzy sets help to assess whether the glass is half-full or half empty, or how, if at all, the welfare state is retrenched or restructured.

KÜHNER, Stefan (09.21.2009), "Analysing the Productive Dimensions of Welfare:Looking Beyond East Asia", paper presented at : The Second UK-Japan Roundtable on the Frontiers of the Qualitative Comparative Method, Sapporo,

LACEY, Rodney (10.21.2001/10.24.2001), "Creating Generalized Knowledge From Case Studies: a New Methodological Approach", paper presented at : The Strategic Management Society 21st Annual International Conference, San Francisco,
Abstract: Most strategic research is either specific case studies (N < 6), or generalizable quantitative studies (N > 100), because researchers lack methods for handling multiple case studies (N=10-50). This paper demonstrates a new methodology, based on boolean analysis, that can handle multiple case studies and simultaneously achieve tailored and generalizable models of strategic practice. Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) (Ragin, 1987) allows for systematic, statistical analysis of causal relationships when the number of cases would be too small for standard statistical tests, but when the complexity of data is too great for traditional qualitative approaches. This paper illustrates the effectiveness and utility of the multiple case method and QCA by showing how independent variables affect organizational innovation in 30 hypothetical but representative case studies.

LAM, Wai Fung and OSTROM, Elinor (Mar 2010), "Analyzing the Dynamic Complexity of Development Interventions: Lessons From an Irrigation Experiment in Nepal", Policy Sciences, 43, 1, 1-25.
Abstract:Improving irrigation systems in Asian countries has been a high priority for the allocation of international aid. Substantial funds have been allocated to adopt the "best practices" of hiring external water engineers to construct modern systems to replace those that farmers built. These expensive investments have infrequently led to long-term improvement in the operation of irrigation systems in Asia. In this article, we examine the process and impact of an innovative irrigation assistance project that was initially undertaken in Nepal in the mid-1980s. We analyze data obtained over three time periods related to changes in system structure and performance over time. We trace the unfolding patterns of improved engineering infrastructure across time depending on the way it interacts with other factors to affect long-term irrigation performance. We examine some of the key variables that are likely to affect the diverse and complex patterns of change. We also undertake analysis of the configural impact of core variables using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA). We find that the initial and later investments in system infrastructure are only one factor that helps to generate short-term improvement. Unless farmers encourage local entrepreneurs and organize themselves, create their own rules or use sanctions, and augment their rules through collective action, infrastructure investment alone is not sufficient to achieve sustainable higher performance.

LAMBERT, Simon J. and FAIRWEATHER, John R. (2010 ), "The Socio-Technical Networks of Technology Users' Innovation in New Zealand: a Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis.", Research Report - Agribusiness & Economics Research Unit, Lincoln University, 320, i83 pp.
Abstract:[SHORT] This report documents technology users' innovation as an important source of invention in New Zealand. Interviews were conducted of 55 inventors and innovators leading to 43 final case studies. A fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis is used to describe configurationsof participation in various network configurations resulting in innovation success and failure. Findings show that the five key elements of socio-technical networks are: financial capital, government support, intellectual property, manufacturing and other business activities. [LONG] Technological innovation by the actual users of technologies is receiving more attention, and deservedly so, as these users combine their passions and expertise into improving the technologies which they employ in their personal and professional lives. This report documents technology users’ innovation (TUI) as an important source of inventions which can become successful commercial innovations. Using a range of TUI case studies in the farming, building and energy sectors, we utilise fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to describe configurations of participation in various network configurations that result in innovation success and failure. Data are drawn from extended interviews with over 55 inventors and innovators, leading to 43 final case studies set against a broader analysis of New Zealand’s innovation policies and practice. The method led to the identification of five key elements within the socio-technical networks of innovation: financial capital, government support, intellectual property (IP), manufacturing, and other business activities. Results show the key configurations to innovation success involve inventors who were:
• Well financed, not undertaking significant manufacturing, holding relevant IP; or,
• Well financed, engaged in other businesses, again with relevant IP. The most common configurations leading to innovation failure were:
• Poorly financed, lacking government support, not engaged in other business activities, and lacking IP; or,
• Well financed, lacking government support, engaged in other businesses, undertaking significant manufacturing, and lacking IP. The results were used to develop a model of TUI which shows how innovation is the product of both individual inventive ability and the ability to selectively participate in the relevant socio-technical networks within which the invention evolves into an innovation. A significant resource on which these innovators draw is best understood as social capital, comprising family farm(s) and firm(s), family members, and peers. The model highlights the potential complexity of the TUI networks and shows how successful innovation requires the release of an often intensely personal technology and through the proactive management of the key factors.
The results also indicate that New Zealand’s innovation governance could be improved by policy which better supports TUI, specifically by increasing and facilitating the availability of financial capital and IP protection, expanding and supporting international collaboration (especially in offshore manufacturing), and addressing ethics and trust in business. Wider societal issues also constrain innovation in New Zealand. These issues would be mitigated by an increase in the technological literacy of New Zealand society as well as a wider and deeper appreciation of the necessity and difficulty of innovation, and the personal and economic rewards when it succeeds. While much of the success of local TUI stems from the character of New Zealanders, their knowledge and their passions, that success would be enhanced by improving the connectivity of the New Zealand innovation system as a whole, and the connectivity of this system globally.

LANCASTER, Thomas D. and MONTINOLA, Gabriella R. (4.6.2001/4.11.2001), "Comparative Political Corruption: Issues of Operationalization and Measurement", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops, Workshop on "Corruption, Scandal and the Contestation of Governance in Europe", Grenoble,

LAROSE, Kristy D. (3.1996), Factors Associated With National Olympic Success : an Exploratory Study,Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick (unpublished).

LAROSE, Kristy D. and HAGGERTY, Terry R. (10.2.1996/10.5.1996), "Factors Associated With Olympic Success : an Exploratory Study", paper presented at : European Association for Sport Management Congress, Montpellier. (online at : http://www.unb.ca/sportmanagement/haggerty/olympic.htm)
Abstract: Little conclusive research has been reported in the area of national Olympic success and its contributing factors. Yet, sport organizations worldwide continue to spend large amounts of money in the quest for excellence in sport performance. Without a clear model of the influence of various factors on sport success, it is difficult for sport policy makers to understand the problem and to make rational allocations and long-range planning decisions about their sport delivery system. There have been many studies about this topic. Some of the variables identified by past research are noted in Appendix 1 (...).

LAURIA, M. and WAGNER, J. A. (Sum 2006), "What Can We Learn From Empirical Studies of Planning Theory? A Comparative Case Analysis of Extant Literature", Journal of Planning Education and Research, 25, 4, 364-381.
Abstract: In 1995, Judith Innes recognized the increasing influence of a new type of planning theorist. Adverse to "armchair theorizing," these theorists have taken a fine-grained analysis of planning practice as the basis for reconstruction of planning theory. Despite the proliferation of this theoretical project, its impact on urban planning has yet to be analyzed in a comprehensive manner. The major impetus for the research is to assess the ways that empirical research in planning practice has informed or failed to inform planning theory. Have empirical Studies of planning practice resolved existing theoretical contentions? Or have they generated only more conflicting opinions and a lack of resolution of the existing debates? This article presents a meta-analysis of empirical studies in planning theory.

LEDERMANN, Simone, "The Cantonal Spirit in Federal Law-Making the Pre-Parliamentary Process As Intergovernmental Negotiation Arena", paper presented at : Workshop on Comparative Methods: Constructing Concepts and Using QCA, University of Bern ,

---------- (2004), Wozu denn wissenschafltich? Untersuchung zur Verwendung von Evaluationen in der schweierischen Entwicklungszusammenarbeit, Universität Bern, Lizentiatsarbeit.

LEE, Seungyoon Sophia (2008), "A Critique of the Fuzzy-Set Methods in Comparative Social Policy. A Critical Introduction and Review of the Applications of Fuzzy-Set Methods.", COMPASSS Working Paper WP 2008-53, 2008-53,
Abstract: This article critiques the Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Analysis (fs/QCA) methodology by examining its applicability in three studies in the field of comparative social policy. In each of these three test cases, I focus on the validity of Fuzzy-Set’s claimed function – its ability to combine theoretic discourse and evidence analysis. All three studies investigate welfare state reform in the late twentieth century and apply fs/QCA: (1) “Welfare Reform in the Nordic Countries in the 1990s: Using Fuzzy-Set Theory to Assess Conformity to the Ideal Types,” (2) States of Welfare or States of Workfare? Welfare State Restructuring in the 16 Capitalist Democracies, 1985-2002,” and (3) “The Diversity and Causality of Welfare State Reforms Explored with Fuzzy-Sets.” This article begins by discussing the ontology and epistemology of comparative social policy. The Fuzzy-Set logic and set theoretic nature of social science theory is then discussed to align ontology with Fuzzy-Set methodology. Next, a more detailed introduction of Fuzzy-Set methods (fs/QCA) is followed. This study suggests that fs/QCA is a unique and useful method for comparative social policy. It advances quantitative comparative analysis by in interpreting attributes as a configuration. By applying Fuzzy-Set logic and the principle of calibration, it advances qualitative analysis by permitting theoretically-informed concepts to the quantified.

LEE, Seungyoon Sophia (2009), "Rethinking the New Risk Discussion. Risk Shifts in 18 Post-Industrial Economies", COMPASSS Working Paper 2009-56, 2009-56,
Abstract:The discussion of "new risks" in the field of social policy started to gain attention in the late 1990s. It is commonly argued that new risks are provoked by deindustrialization and/or globalization and that new risks tend to be more concentrated among the young, women and low skilled individuals. This study commences its inquiry with a scientific conceptualization of social risk in an attempt to critically rethink the argument of new risk. A reevaluation of the concept is followed by an empirical investigation of the question whether there is such a thing as new risk and whether there might be a convergence in the characteristics of new risk as the literature suggests. A lack of comparative empirical evidence on new risks in the existing literature calls for an investigation of advanced economies both from the global West, as well as the East. 18 countries are selected in order to provide a comparative account to understanding new risk. These are comparatively analyzed using the fuzzy-set qualitative analysis method (fs/QCA) discover different types of social risks and to measure degrees of changes in relation to social risk. In sum, this paper aims to answer two questions: 1) What is new risk? and 2) How do the characteristic of risks differ in different post-industrial countries? This study contributes to the new risk discussion not only theoretically and empirically, but also methodologically.

LETNES, Bjorn (2008), Transnational Corporations, Economic Development, and Human Rights. On the Importance of FDI Composition and Host Country Assets, Doctoral Theses at NTNU, 2008;69, Trondheim, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Social Science and Technology Management, Department of Sociology and Political Science.

LIEBMANN, Dana (2009), Institutional Change in a Varieties of Capitalism Context : How to Explain Shifts From Coordinated Market Economies Towards Liberal Market Economies in the 1990s ; an Empirical Analysis of Cross-Country Data , München & Mering, Rainer Hampp Verlag.
Abstract: Based on the Varieties of Capitalism (VoC) theory the development of economic systems is explored. Studies testing the VoC approach as a whole are rare and they reeal institutional change that contradicts and challenges the theoretically expected developments. During the 1990s, several Coordinated Market Economies (CME) display change towards institutional structures commonly found in Liberal Market Economies (LME). This thesis, relying on data from 16 countries, examines the differences between these changing CMEs and those that still show distinct CME structures at the end of the decade. According to Douglas North's Transaction Cost Theory of Institutional Change the study empirically investigates formal and informal constraints that may be capable of fostering or, respectively, hampering institutional change directed towards LME settings. In a quantitative analysis several formal parameters are considered (political system, property rights structure, juridical elements and economic integration). Moreover, socio-cultural factors are reviewed. It is usually agreed in the institution literature, at least at a theoretical level, that norms and values ought to be taken into account as explanatory factors. Explicit empirical testing can, however, scarcely be found. National differences in values as well as the issue of value change are traced with data provided by the World Values Study.

LIKHTENCHTEIN, Anna (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Comparing New Phenomena: Heuristic Potential of QCA. (Elite Driven Parties in Russia and Ukraine)", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Systematic Qualitative Comparisons in Comparative Research", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: This paper explores Duma elections in Russia (1993-1999) and Rada elections in the Ukraine (1994-2000). A methodological intrigue lies in the fact Ukrainian ruling elites began to exploit the strategy of party building later then in Russia, and in spite of the fact that at one point countries' institutional variables became 'similar', the political role of party principle remained 'different'. The paper points the question - what are the factors, accounted for such a puzzle, and what kind of expectations can be proposed about party system development in the countries. To address this intriguing puzzle, this paper proposes a unique methodological solution to the problems described. In particular, the paper stresses the potential of comparative analysis for the investigation of new underdeveloped phenomena that often arise when dealing with transforming democracies.

LILIENTHAL, S. and HAGGERTY, Terry R. (6.1993), "Factors Associated With Microcomputer Use in Professional Organizations: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : Annual Conference of the North American Society for Sport Management, Edmonton,

LOBE, Bojana (2006), Mixing Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in the Environment of New Information-Communication Technologies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana (unpublished).

LUOMA, Pentti (9.25.2004/9.28.2004), "The Social Sustainability of the Community Structures: the Case of the Oulu Region in the North of Finland", paper presented at : ESF Exploratory Workshop on "Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis. And Interdisciplinary European Endeavour for Methodological Advances and Improved Policy Analysis/Evaluation", Erfurt, Germany,

MAENEN, Seth, BOL Damien, and RIHOUX Benoît (work in progress (submitted for publication)), The Effect of the Institutional Environment on Decoupling Strategies in Struggles on Corporate Social Responsibility (unpublished manuscript).

MAHONEY, James (2003), "Knowledge Accumulation in Comparative Historical Research: The Case of Democracy and Authoritarianism", in MAHONEY, James and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 131-176.

MARX, Axel (9.17.2004), "Discovering Actionable Knowledge: Systematic Comparative Case Analysis in Management Research (Slides of Presentation)", paper presented at : International Colloquium on Analyzing Strategic Change in Organizations: Innovative Methods for Management, Bruxelles,

---------- (2008), "Limits to Non-State Market Regulation: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the International Sport Footwear Industry and the Fair Labor Association", Regulation and Governance, 2, 2, 253-273.
Abstract: Non-state market regulation has become a central focus and continues to receive scholarly attention. The present paper provides an assessment of the conditions under which multinational firms join a multi-stakeholder certification initiative. The cases of the Fair labor Association and 17 international sport footwear companies have been selected for this purpose. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the 17 cases is performed. The paper argues that the combination of sustained NGO pressure and public ownership of a firm is a necessary precondition for firms joining a multi-stakeholder certification initiative. The theoretical and policy implications of this result are discussed.

MARX, Axel and DOMBRECHT, Jan (2004), "The Organisational Antecedents of Repetitive Strain Injuries: a Systematic Comparative Case Analysis of Assembly, Sorting and Packaging Jobs", COMPASSS Working Paper, 25, 1-25.
Abstract: The paper presents a specific research-design – systematic comparative case analysis - to analyse the impact of organisational characteristics on individual level outcomes. A systematic comparative case analysis consists of an across case and within case analysis of a limited set of comparable cases. Across case analysis or Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) aims to identify similarities and differences between configurations of explanatory variables. Within case analysis aims to identify the causal mechanisms which link configurations to outcomes. Systematic comparative case analysis is applied to a research question on the organisational antecedents of repetitive strain injuries of the wrist in highly repetitive, non-fragmented and simple jobs. In total, 16 cases (each consisting on average of 15 workers) were analysed.

MASON, George P. (5.28.2000), "The Part-Time Sociology Instructor and the "Trap" of Adjunct Faculty Positions: an Investigation into the Differences Faced by Part-Time Instructors on Both Sides of the Ambassador Bridge", paper presented at : Canadian Sociology and Anthropology Association 35th Annual Meeting, Edmonton,

MCADAM, Doug, BOUDET, Hillary S., DAVIS, Jennifer, ORR, Ryan J., SCOTT, W. Richard, and LEVITT, Raymond E. (Sep 2010), ""Site Fights": Explaining Opposition to Pipeline Projects in the Developing World1", Sociological Forum, 25, 3, 401-427.
Abstract: Fifty years ago, the main challenges to large infrastructure projects were technical or scientific. Today, the greatest hurdles faced by such projects are almost always social and/or political. Whether constructing large dams in the developing world or siting liquefied natural gas terminals in the United States, the onset of these projects often triggers intense popular opposition. But not always, and therein lays the animating aim of this project. We undertake a systematic comparative case analysis of mobilization efforts against 11 oil and gas pipeline projects spanning 16 countries in the developing world. Using theories from the social movement and facility siting literatures and the technique of fuzzy set/qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA), we examine the "causal conditions" linked to political and legal opposition to these projects. We find that both Western funding of projects and public consultation serve as necessary political opportunities encouraging mobilization. In addition, not compensating the host country for involvement in the project is linked to mobilization. Finally, some risk from the project, in the form of environmental or social impact, is associated with mobilization; however, this impact does not have to be very significant for mobilization to occur.

MCBRIDE, Dorothy E. and MAZUR, Amy G. (03.30.2008), "Womens' Movements, Womens's Policy Agencies and Democratization", paper presented at : Conference of Europeanists, Council for European Studies, Chicago,
Abstract: Abstract: This paper makes the case that, since the late 1960s, women’s movement actors have been successful in making post-industrial democracies more democratic across a variety of issues and that successful movements’ alliances with women’s policy agencies—called state feminism--have been sufficient or even necessary to expand descriptive and substantive representation. These successful alliances have occurred in every one of the 13 countries in the study (including 11 European countries).1 At the same time, where there has been a pattern of failure to expand women’s representation and movement actors have been completely shut out, there is evidence that it is due to the absence of supportive activity by women’s policy agencies; in other words, the absence of state feminism.

---------- (2010), The Politics of State Feminism. Innovation in Comparative Research, Philadelphia, Temple University Press.

MCDERMOTT, Aoife, KEATING, Mary A., and BEYNON, Malcolm J. (2010), "Achieving Clinician Involvement in Decision-Making and Resource Management: Addressing the Policy-Practice Gap in Clinical Directorates", paper presented at : OBHC Conference, Birmingham, UK,
Abstract: Clinicians are the major resource consumers in hospitals. In Ireland, as internationally, the introduction of clinical directorate (CD) structures has been adopted as a policy to balance clinical decision-making power with financial responsibility. However, recent studies have identified gaps between the espoused benefits of CDs and their impact in practice. As a result, we analyse the structural, management-process and cultural factors associated with the achievement of their primary objectives: clinician involvement in managerial decision-making and resource-management. We employ an innovative methodological technique, qualitative comparative analysis, which enables us to identify the causal relationship between factors and associated outcome(s). Our findings draw attention not alone to the necessary (information) and potentially supporting (clinical directorate structure in place; budgetary devolution; accountability; cross-professional forums and; cultural support) factors associated with clinician involvement in decision-making and resource-management, but to three alternative and causally-equivalent ‘paths’ to achieving these outcomes. We conclude by discussing the policy and practice implications raised.

MELINDER, K. A. and ANDERSSON, R. (2001), "The Impact of Structural Factors on the Injury Rate in Different European Countries ", European Journal of Public Health, 11, 3, 301-308.
Abstract: Background. A previous study pointed to there being two kinds of injuries - those with a mainly social genesis and those with a mainly environmental genesis. The aim of this study was to analyse how socioeconomic factors - such as level of economic development, alcohol consumption and unemployment and more cultural factors - such as education and religion - relate to kinds of injury. Method. Motor vehicle traffic accidents were chosen to represent injuries with a predominantly environmental genesis and suicides those with a mainly social genesis. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) complemented by Pearson correlation was employed. The data come from 12 European countries. Results. Four groups of countries emerged from the analysis. Group 1 was high on both kinds of injuries and was also high on all the independent variables considered. Group 2 was low on social injuries and high on environmental injuries; it had a low level of economic development, high alcohol consumption and a high proportion of Roman Catholics. Group 3 was high on social injuries and low on environmental injuries; it had a high level of economic development, low alcohol consumption and few Roman Catholics. Group 4 was low on both kinds of injuries; the independent variables formed a similar pattern to those of group 3. Conclusion. The pattern for traffic fatalities differs from that of suicides. There is also patterning with regard to structural factors; economic level, education and religion seem to be more important with regard to injury rate differentials than alcohol consumption or unemployment. Keywords: Europe, injury, social phenomenon, suicide, traffic accident.

MELINDER, Karin (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "QCA and Correlational Methods", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "The Potential of Statistical Methods in “Small N” and “Medium N” Situations", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: QCA is normally used in political science and with nominal data. The aim of this paper is to present a way to combine QCA with quantitative data and methods. A number of European countries are compared according to their levels of fatal injuries and various structural factors. The method employed involves a combination of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and Pearson correlation. The QCA table presented shows a pattern where countries with a special combination of variable values have many traffic accidents and few suicides, whereas countries with the opposite pattern have few traffic accidents and many suicides. But it is hard to tell which variables impact on which. Correlation coefficients, however, reveal the importance of each specific variable in relation both to each other and to the outcome. Combining QCA with Pearson correlations compensates for one of the disadvantages with QCA, namely the difficulty of ranking factors. Correlations, however, in one way functions similar to QCA in that it gives the same patterning of variables when not using partial correlations that control for other variables.

MELINDER, Karin A. and ANDERSSON, Ragnar (9.6.2000/9.9.2000), "Multivariate Analysis in Qualitative Research", paper presented at : 3rd Nordic Health Promotion Research Conference, Tampere,
Abstract:Background : Multivariate analysis has mostly been performed using quantitative methods. In these, controlling for confounders and inter-correlated variables is treated as important. The aim of this paper is to discuss the role of confounders and inter-correlated variables when utilizing qualitative rather than quantitative techniques.
Material and methods: A number of European countries are compared according to their levels of fatal injuries and various structural factors. The method employed involves a combination of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and Pearson correlation. QCA uses binary data, and has the advantage of being capable of presenting a pattern on the basis of a variety of variables. One disadvantage of OCA is that it is hard to rank factors in accordance with their importance. The advantage of Pearson correlation is that results can be presented in the form of a matrix displaying values on many variables.
Results: The QCA table presented shows a pattern where countries with a special combination of variable values - low GNP, high level of unemployment, high alcohol consumption and many Catholics - have many traffic accidents and few suicides, whereas countries with high GNP, a low unemployment rate, low alcohol consumption and few Catholics do not. But it is hard to tell which variables impact on which. Pearson correlation coefficients, however, reveal the importance of each specific variable. When the table provided by QCA is complemented with Pearson coefficients it is found that - although both unemployment rate and alcohol consumption contribute to the formation of the QCA pattern - their roles differ between rich, non-Catholic countries and less-developed, Catholic countries.
Discussion: Confounding variables, which in quantitative analysis are seen as problematic, can be regarded as an asset in qualitative analysis. The latter kind of analysis enables a patterning of cases that is not possible when relying solely on the former.

METELITS, Claire and WEBER, Edward (8.28.2008), "Saving Nature and Growing Crops in Uzbekistan: Applying QCA to Explain Policy Outcomes", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Annual Meeting of the APSA 2008 Annual Meeting, Boston,
Abstract: This paper illustrates the potential of fuzzy set analysis for evaluating policy outcomes by reassessing a recent study that endeavored to shed light on crop productivity and environmental sustainability outcomes in Water User Associations (WUAs) in Uzbekistan. In doing so, we find that fuzzy set analysis not only provides a more sophisticated and nuanced parsing of the original data, but also calls into question the precision and validity of the original study’s conclusions, constrained as they were by the established, competing, theoretically derived “bundles” of independent variables. The first section briefly presents the original study by Weber et al. (2007) before turning to a second section that replicates the Uzbek study using the fuzzy set approach. Section two explains the coding of the qualitative categories of conditions into fuzzy set membership scores and discusses the differences in results and conclusions produced by the fuzzy set approach as compared to the original, more traditional comparative case study method method. This application demonstrates how fuzzy set analysis can improve the precision and validity of conclusions even without major changes to the original qualitative results (Hage 2005). The third section of this paper presents the model of necessary and sufficient conditions for improved crop production and increased environmental sustainability in seven WUAs in Uzbekistan. In this case, it uses the findings of the initial study to improve theory. By employing fuzzy set analysis, it uses a more fine-tuned measurement scale based on the original results. The outcome of this analysis indicates further theoretical fine-tuning. The final section of this paper discusses the differences in outcomes between the original study, which uses a more traditional comparative case study approach and the replication using the fuzzy set approach.

METELITS, Claire M. (02.28.2007), "The Transformation of Rebel Group Behavior: A Comparative Analysis of Groups in Sudan, Turkey and Colombia", paper presented at : Annual Meeting of the International Studies Association 48th Annual Convention, Chicago,
Abstract:The purpose of this paper is to explain the change in behavior of rebel groups toward populations they claim to represent. Drawing upon fieldwork in Sudan, Iraq, Turkey, and Colombia, it explores shifts in behavior among three rebel organizations: the PKK, the SPLA and the FARC. Each group is examined in relation to three variables: the presence of rival groups, the need for resources, and the type of resources the group is extracting. By using process tracing and two variations of Qualitative Comparative Analysis, it becomes clear that it is the presence of rivals that supplies the framework for the rational calculations of rebels.

---------- (Dec 2009), "The Consequences of Rivalry Explaining Insurgent Violence Using Fuzzy Sets", Political Research Quarterly, 62, 4, 673-684.
Abstract: The author presents a unique theory of insurgent group behavior using a fuzzy-set approach. In contrast to arguments that place the culpability of insurgent group violence toward noncombatants in the arena of natural resource endowments or the distinctive nature of contemporary conflicts, the author uses a component of qualitative comparative analysis to show that the presence of "active rivalry" is critical in determining the type of behavior insurgent groups will display with regard to local populations they claim to represent. The use of fuzzy-set analysis is uncommon in conflict studies yet proves to be a valuable alternative to standard statistical tests.

MIETHE, Terance D., HART, Timothy C., and REGOECZI, Wendy C. (2008), "The Conjunctive Analysis of Case Configurations: An Exploraory Method for Discrete Multivariate Analyses of Crime Data", Journal of Quantitative Criminology, 24, 227-241.

MILES, Edward L., UNDERDAL ARILD , ANDRESEN, Steinar, WETTESTAD, Jorgen, SKJAERSETH, Jon Birger, and CARLIN, Elaine M. (2002), Environmental Regime Effectiveness: Confronting Theory With Evidence, Cambridge, MIT Press.

MISUMI, Kazuto (9.14.2000/9.16.2000), "Two Levels of Dyscommunication: an Analysis by Boolean Role Model ", paper presented at : 4th Conference of the Asia Pacific Sociological Association, Kwansei Gakuin University, Nishinomiya (Japan). (abstract at : http://www.world.ryukoku.ac.jp/~pauline/Kosaka.html)
Abstract:This paper analyzes, based on Boolean model of social role, how the subjective internal structures of roles condition the dyscommunication between actors. We postulate that a role consists of some role elements in an individual¹s image. Suppose a role X, and also suppose a performer who has image X¹ and an observer who has image X². In general, X can be discriminated by an observer under the condition that X¹X² equals to X², or at least that X¹X² and X² share one or more Boolean sum of products. The first order dyscommunication occurs when one or more role elements are not shared between subgroups of actors. Taking a simple model of two elements, we examine the cases in which this type of dyscommunication occurs. Even if each subgroup enrolls the different elements in the definition of role X respectively, actors might be confronted with the second order dyscommunication. Being a set of role elements commonly shared among actors does not mean everyone have same type of image; so that, the condition mentioned above may not be satisfied in some combinations between types. We examine such cases based on the extended three elements¹ model. An implied situation of this study is intercultural communication, as well as international marriage increasing in rural area of Japan.

MISUMI, Kazuto (2001), "Two Levels of Dyscommunication: an Analysis by Boolean Role Model ", Sociological Theory and Methods, 16, 2, 229-243. (abstract at : http://www.world.ryukoku.ac.jp/~pauline/Kosaka.html)

MISUMI, Kazuto (2001), "Yakuwari Riron Moderu [A Model of Role Theory]", in KANOMATA, Nobuo, NOMIYA, Daishiro, and HASEGAWA, Keiji (eds), Shituteki Hikaku Bunseki [Qualitative Comparative Analysis], Kyoto, Mineruva Syobo,

---------- (2002), "A Boolean Model of Role Discrimination", Journal of Mathematical Sociology, 26, 1-2, 111-121. (abstract at : http://www.sscnet.ucla.edu/soc/groups/mathsoc/hawaii/abstracts.htm)
Abstract: This paper analyzes, based on Boolean approach by C.C.Ragin, how the subjective internal structures of social roles condition the possibility of role discrimination. I postulate, in an individualfs image, a role consists of some role elements, which construct an internal hierarchical structure (role image) depending on each elementfs contribution to the role discrimination as a whole. Then the role discrimination is formulated as a Boolean equation, taking the role elements as independent variables and the role discrimination itself as a dependent variable. Suppose a role X, and a performer who has image Xf and an observer who has image Xh communicate ea ch other. In general, between such two given actors, X can be discriminated by an observer under the condition that XfXh equals to Xh, or at least th at XfXh and Xh share one or more Boolean products; however, X is never di scriminated otherwise. At first, I take a simple case of two elements and examine the possibility of role discrimination for all possible combinations of images. After that, some general propositions as to the possibility of role discrimination, that hold regardless of the number of role elements, are derived.

MONTPETIT, Eric, VARONE, Frédéric, and ROTHMAYR, Christine (07.15.2006/07.16.2006), "Politics of Biotechnology in Europe and North America: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : International Conference on Comparative Social Sciences, Tokyo, Japan,

---------- (2007), "Regulating ART and GMOs in Europe and North America: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", in MONTPETIT, Eric, VARONE, Frédéric, and ROTHMAYR, Christine (eds), The Politics of Biotechnology in North America and Europe, Lanham, Lexington Books, pp. 263-283.

MORALES DIEZ DE ULZURRUN, Laura (1998), Membership in Political Groups in Western Countries (unpublished manuscript). (PhD. Project, online at : http://www.sscnet.ucla.edu/soc/groups/scr/ulzurrun.pdf)

MOREIRA, Amilcar (2008), The Activation Dilemma : Reconciling the Fairness and Effectiveness of Minimum Income Schemes in Europe, Bristol, Policy Pr.

MOURY, Catherine (2003), "Use of Fuzzy Set in an Explanatory Research: a Study on the Characteristics of Coalition Agreement", COMPASSS Working Paper, 12, 17p.
Abstract:This research aims to understand why the complete and precise character of the coalition agreement varies. I assume that the fuzzy set is the appropriate method in such an explanatory phase of the research, because it allows the “necessary dialogue between ideas and evidence”. The results suggest to consider the redaction of the agreement as a two level game, between the parties and between the government and the parties which support it.

---------- (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Impact of Coalition Agreement in 8 Cabinets: Using Fuzzy-Set to Explain Its Variation", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Fuzzy Sets in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: This research aims to understand why the complete and precise character of the coalition agreement varies. I assume that the fuzzy set is the appropriate method in such an explanatory phase of the research, because it allows the "necessary dialogue between ideas and evidence". The results suggest to consider the redaction of the agreement as a two level game, between the parties and between the government and the parties which support it.

---------- (2004), "Les Ensembles Flous pour y voir plus clair: décoder les caractéristiques des accords de coalition en Europe Occidentale ", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 101-115.

MUNOZ, Lucio (2004), Developing a Rapid Deforestation Assessment and Planning Methodology for Central America Based on Qualitative Comparative Analysis,(unpublished dissertation) (unpublished).

MUNOZ, Lucio (2009), "Beyond Traditional Sustainable Development: Sustainability Theory and Sustainability Indeces Under Ideal Present-Absent Qualitative Comparative Conditions", Mineria Sustentable, REDESMA, 3, 1,

NAVARRO YANEZ, Clemente J. (2004), "Participatory Democracy and Political Opportunism: Municipal Experience in Italy and Spain (1960-93)", International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 28, 4, 819-838.
Abstract: The relationship between local scale and participatory democracy is one of the main issues of normative theory of democracy. This article tries to show that the development of this model of democracy also depends on institutional factors. In his political opportunism hypothesis the author proposes that local governments have to develop adaptive strategies to make electoral victory compatible with offers of opportunities of participation: on the one hand, because the parties have to make government or opposition action compatible between local and central political levels; on the other, because the supply of participation presupposes the redistribution of power among local interest groups and the possibility of imposing limits over local government actions. To test this hypothesis, the author analyses data on citizen participation among Italian and Spanish local governments by qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). In conclusion, the author argues that political opportunism c ould limit local democratization and new urban governance initiatives.

NELSON, Kenneth (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "The Last Resort. Determinants of the Generosity of Means-Tested Minimum Income Protection in Welfare Democracies", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "Assessing the Respective Potential of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), Fuzzy Sets and Other Techniques : Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: This paper evaluates institutional linkages between different types of social security programs. The purpose is to explain cross-national variation in the generosity of minimum income protection. Three hypotheses of an institutional relationship between social insurance and the generosity of minimum income protection are tested by means of OLS-regression, Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Fuzzy-set analysis. The analysis includes 18 countries in the early 1990s. From an economic point of view it is assumed that the impact of social insurance on the generosity of minimum income protection is mediated through its effects on the costs for means-tested benefits, whereas the impact from a middle class perspective originates from the degree to which social policies promote cross-class interests in defence for the welfare state. Finally, from a strictly institutional perspective it is assumed that social insurance set certain upper limits to the level of means-tested benefits, which determine the possibilities of raising the value of minimum income protection. The empirical analyses give strongest support to the middle class inclusion thesis, which indicates that the degree of income security in social insurance is of importance for cross-national differences in the generosity of minimum income protection.

---------- (2004), "The Last Resort. Determinants of the Generosity of Means-Tested Minimum Income Protection in Welfare Democracies", COMPASSS Working Paper, 21, 44p.
Abstract:This study evaluates institutional linkages between different types of social security programs in eighteen welfare states in the early 1990s. The purpose is to analyze the determinants of cross-national variations in the level of minimum income protection. Three hypotheses of an institutional relationship between social insurance and the generosity of minimum income protection are tested by means of OLS-regression, Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Fuzzy-set analysis. From an economic point of view it is hypothesized that the impact of social insurance on the generosity of minimum income protection is mediated through its effects on the costs for means-tested benefits. From a political perspective, the hypothesis is that this impact derives from the degree to which social policies promote cross-class interests in support for the welfare state. Finally, from a strictly institutional perspective, the hypothesis is that social insurance set certain upper limits to the level of means-tested benefits, which determine the possibilities of raising the value of minimum income protection. The empirical analyses show that not all aspects of social insurance are of equal importance in explaining cross-national variations in the level of minimum income protection. The most important aspect seems to be the degree to which social insurance provides income security, which supports the middle-class inclusion hypothesis on institutional dependencies between different tiers of the social security system.

---------- (2006), "The Last Resort. Determinants of the Generosity of Means-Tested Minimum Income Protection in Welfare Democracies", in CARROLL, E. and ERIKSSON, L. (eds), Welfare Politics Cross-Examined, Amsterdam, Aksant,
Abstract: Abstract: This study evaluates institutional linkages between different types of social security programs in eighteen welfare states in the early 1990s. The purpose is to analyze the determinants of cross-national variations in the level of minimum income protection. Three hypotheses of an institutional relationship between social insurance and the generosity of minimum income protection are tested by means of OLS-regression, Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Fuzzy-set analysis. From an economic point of view it is hypothesized that the impact of social insurance on the generosity of minimum income protection is mediated through its effects on the costs for means-tested benefits. From a political perspective, the hypothesis is that this impact derives from the degree to which social policies promote cross-class interests in support for the welfare state. Finally, from a strictly institutional perspective, the hypothesis is that social insurance set certain upper limits to the level of means-tested benefits, which determine the possibilities of raising the value of minimum income protection. The empirical analyses show that not all aspects of social insurance are of equal importance in explaining cross-national variations in the level of minimum income protection. The most important aspect seems to be the degree to which social insurance provides income security, which supports the middle-class inclusion hypothesis on institutional dependencies between different tiers of the social security system.

NOMIYA, Daishiro (2001), "Minsyuu no Hanran to Shakai Hendou: Rekishiteki Deita heno Ouyou [Peasants' rebellion and social change: application [of QCA] to historical data]", in KANOMATA, Nobuo, NOMIYA, Daishiro, and HASEGAWA, Keiji (eds), Shituteki Hikaku Bunseki [Qualitative comparative analysis], Kyoto, Mineruva Syobo, pp. 79-94.

O'NEIL, K. M. (Feb 2008), "Bringing Art to Market: the Diversity of Pricing Styles in a Local Art Market", Poetics, 36, 1, 94-113.
Abstract:This paper examines the pricing of visual art from the perspective of artists themselves. Based on interviews with 53 visual artists, the most common factors involved in pricing decisions are identified: size, expenses, status, market factors, and the artist's own perception of value. Using Correspondence Analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), relationships between the components of pricing decisions are described. First, the analysis reveals that some producers of art take a craft orientation to production and distribution, while others take a fine art approach. These distinct orientations shape pricing decisions. Second, pricing based on an artist's own determination of aesthetic worth tends not to be combined with pricing based on market factors like demand. While patterns of pricing decisions are uncovered, the complexities of actual pricing decisions demonstrate that working artists negotiate lives that blend instrumental economic activity with creative self-expression, belief in fairness, and community norms both inside and outside the art world.

OCHEL, Wolfgang and ROHWER, Anja ( "Reduction of Employment Protection in Europe: A Comparative Fuzzy-Set Analysis", CESifo Working Paper, 2828,
Abstract: Since the middle of the 1980s many European countries have reduced the strictness of their employment protection mainly by relaxing it for temporary jobs. These countries are Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden. The article explores the conditions of the reduction of employment protection and takes a closer look at the combination of causal factors. It uses fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fuzzy-set QCA).

OESTREICHER, Jordan S., BENESSAIAH, Karina, RUIZ-JAEN, M. C., SLOAN, S., TURNER, K., PELLETIER, J. et.al. (May 2009), "Avoiding Deforestation in Panamanian Protected Areas: an Analysis of Protection Effectiveness and Implications for Reducing Emissions From Deforestation and Forest Degradation", Global Environmental Change, 19, 2, 279-291.
Abstract:Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) is likely to be central to a post-Kyoto climate change mitigation agreement. As such, identifying conditions and factors that will shape the success or failure of a reduced deforestation scheme will provide important insights for policy planning. Given that protected areas (PAs) are a cornerstone in forest conservation, we draw on interviews and secondary data to analyze the effects of available PA resources, governance ability, the level of community involvement, and provincial deforestation rates on land-cover change in nine PAs in Panama. Our results illustrate that coupling surveillance measures with greater funding and strong governance are paramount to reducing deforestation. Alone, however, these factors are insufficient for forest protection. We argue that conservation approaches that complement effective Surveillance with community participation and equitable benefit sharing will address the wider issues of leakage and permanence.

OLSEN, Wendy and NOMURA, Hisako (August 2008), "Fuzzy-Set Approach to Poverty Reduction Compared With Growth Modelling", paper presented at : RC33 Conference in Social Science Methodology, Naples, Italy,

OSA, Maryjane and CORDUNEANU-HUCI, Cristina (2001), "Running Uphill: Socio-Political Mobilization in Authoritarian States", paper presented at : Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Association, Panel 45-12: Subnational Dynamics and Democratization, San Fransisco,
Abstract: This study analyzes twenty-four cases representing a range of non-democratic states to determine conditions of political opportunity in high-risk authoritarian contexts. Research to date has concentrated on comparing two or three cases; this study uses Ragin's (1987) Boolean method of qualitative comparison (QCA 3.0) on a larger-N to identify specific configurations of conditions that constitute political opportunity in non-democracies. We find that each of the variables suggested by scholars - divided elite, changes to repression, media access, social networks, and influential allies - contributed to political opportunities in non-democracies. But political opportunity does not require all the conditions in order for social mobilization to take place. Our analysis identifies four "prime implicants", or configurations that create an opening for mobilization under authoritarian conditions. The key factors, identified by QCA in the most parsimonious model, are media access and social networks. These two factors together are sufficient conditions for producing mobilization in non-democratic states.

OSA, Maryjane and CORDUNEANU-HUCI, Cristina (2003), "Running Uphill: Political Opportunity in Non-Democracies", Comparative Sociology, 2, 4, 605-629.

OSA, Maryjane Osa and CORDUNEANU-HUCI, Cristina (8.18.2001/8.21.2001), "Political Opportunity in Non-Democracies: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : ASA CBSM Sessions, Pasadena,

OTTITSCH, Andreas and WEISS, Gerhard (1998), "Mountain Forest Policies in European Countries - a Comparison Using Ragin’s Qualitative Comparative Analysis Method", in GLÜCK, P. and WEBER, M. (eds), Mountain Forestry in Europe. Evaluation of Silvicultural and Policy Means, Wien, Institute for Forest Sector Policy and Economics, pp. 263-284.

---------- (2000), "Comparative Analysis of Mountain Forest Policies in Europe. An Application of Ragin's Qualitative Comparative Analysis Approach", in PRICE, M. and BUTT, N. (eds), Forests in Sustainable Mountain Development. A State-of-Knowlegde Report for 2000, Oxon, CABI, pp. 415-421.

PALO, Matti, SOLBERG Birger, HELLSTRÖM Eeva, and ET.AL. (??), The Use of Wood Resources and Environmental Protection in Finland and Other Countries [Metla Research Project Nr 3132 - Any Publications?] (unpublished manuscript). ( Some information at : http://www.metla.fi/hanke/3132/info-en.htm)
Abstract:Research project 1994-97. The purpose of the research project is to compare the impact of conflicting forest-related values and interests ("forestry conflicts") on the transformation of forest policies and on the use of forest resources in six Western countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, France and USA) during 1984-1995. The project will produce updated information on a previous study of forestry conflicts in the same six countries (Hellström, E. & Reunala, A. 1995). The material for the research is based on a total of about180 interviews of specialists and representatives of relevant interest groups within the case study countries. The material will be analyzed using Charles Ragin's method of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), to which a hermeneutic approach will be developed within this project.

PEILLON, Michel (1996), "A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Welfare Legitimacy", Journal of European Social Policy, 6, 3, 175-190.

PENNINGS, Paul (2002), "Explaining Constitutional Control in Modern Democracies With Fuzzy-Sets", paper presented at : Paper Presented at Conference 'Methoden Der Vergleichenden Politikwissenschaft - Vorgehen Und Beispiele Internationaller Und Interkultureller Ländervergleiche',

---------- (3.22.2002/3.27.2002), "The Diversity of Welfare State Reforms Explored With Fuzzy Sets", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions, Torino ,
Abstract:This paper demonstrates how welfare states can be studied empirically as a matter of degree instead of with fixed types with the help of so-called fuzzy sets. A fuzzy set is a set with elements whose membership grades can have any real value between 0 and 1. This 'grading capacity' of fuzzy sets does justice to the growing ambiguity of the conditions that influence the welfare mix in modern welfare states and the outcomes that result from it. In other words: welfare states can be partial members of different state regimes at the same time. The fuzzy-set analysis leads to three findings. First, left governments, corporatism, economic openness and a high number of elderly are 'almost always' sufficient conditions for welfare state expansion, but the underlying multiple-conjunctural causation pattern differs per time period. Second, retrenchment is found to be strongest in countries with highly expanded conditions. Third, the level of social spending is weakly related to the economic performance but hardly to the social performance of countries.

QUARANTA, Mario (2010), "Concept Structures and Fuzzy Set Theory: a Proposal for Concept Formation and Operationalization", COMPASSS Working Paper 2011-62, 2011-62,
Abstract:Concept formation strategies can be divided in positivist or interpretivist approaches. The first relies on classification and taxonomy strategies as tools for concept formation, while the second draws on hermeneutics and uses the ideal type for the definition of concepts. I argue that both have limits concerning concept formation. The positivist approach has strong naturalist assumptions, which can be inadequate to take into account the contingency of the empirical world. By contrast, the interpretivist one is very focused on the historical specificity of concepts, which may lead to their inapplicability. A solution to these problems comes from fuzzy set theory. This holds a potential for concept formation because it has as its main strengths the possibility of configurational thinking and the use of the truth table. Concepts can be built including all the possible attributes into a table and this can have several advantages. Fuzzy set theory also contributes to the creation of partial concepts, representing configurations or sub-types. In this paper, I develop this strategy, illustrating, first, the weaknesses and the strengths of the classical approaches. Then, I discuss the ontology and logic behind fuzzy set theory and demonstrate that it can be a very useful approach to concept formation. In the end, I test applying this strategy to the concept of political participation.

QUEIROZ ATHIAS, Leonardo (10.2003), L'étude des votes blancs et nuls dans deux pays à vote obligatoire: une comparaison entre Brésil et Belgique, Bordeaux, Université Montesquieu - Bordeaux IV (unpublished).

QUEIROZ ATHIAS, Leonardo (11.2003), L'étude des votes blancs et nuls dans deux pays à vote obligatoire: une comparaison entre Brésil et Belgique, Bordeaux, Université Montesquieu - Bordeaux IV (unpublished).

RAGIN, Charles (9.16.2003/9.17.2003), "Recent Advances in Fuzzy-Set Methods and Their Application to Policy Questions", paper presented at : COMPASSS Launching Conference, Louvain-la-Neuve and Leuven, Belgium,

RAGIN, Charles C. (1989), "The Logic of the Comparative Method and the Algebra of Logic", Journal of Quantitative Anthropology, 1, 2, 373-398.

RAGIN, Charles C. (1994), "A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Pension Systems", in JANOSKI, Thomas and HICKS, Alexander M. (eds), The Comparative Political Economy of the Welfare State, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, pp. 320-345.

RAGIN, Charles C. (1995), "Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis to Study Configurations", in KELLE, Udo (ed), Computer-Aided Qualitative Data Analysis. Theory, Methods and Practice, London, Sage Publications, pp. 177-189.

---------- (1999), "Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis to Study Causal Complexity", Health Services Research, Dec. (special supplement), 1225-1239.
Abstract: Discusses why and how different combinations of causal conditions lead to the same outcome and ways qualitative research can contribute to understanding in these circumstances.

RAGIN, Charles C. and BRADSHAW, York W. (1991), "Statistical Analysis of Employment Discrimination : a Review and a Critique", Research in Social Stratification and Mobility, 10, 199-228.

RAGIN, Charles C. and HEIN, Jeremy (1993), "The Comparative Study of Ethnicity : Methodological and Conceptual", in STANFIELD, John H. and RUTLEDGE, Dennis M. (eds), Race and Ethnicity in Research Methods, London, Sage Publications, pp. 254-272.

RAGIN, Charles C., MAYER, Susan E., and DRASS, Kriss A. (1984), "Assessing Discrimination : a Boolean Approach", American Sociological Review, 49, 2, 221-234.

RAGIN, Charles C., SHULMAN, David, WEINBERG, Adam, and GRAN, Brian (2003), "Complexity, Generality, and Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Field Methods, 15, 4, 323-340.
Abstract: Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) offers researchers the opportunity to combine the intensiveness of case-oriented research strategies and the extensiveness of variable-oriented approaches in a single framework. QCA is specifically designed for a moderate number of cases, too few for variable-oriented research designs and too many for in-depth, case-oriented analysis. To illustrate QCA’s applicability to moderate-sized data sets, we analyze data on forty-one villages in southern India reported in Robert Wade’s (1988) comparative study of villagewide collective action, Village Republics. Using QCA, we show that Wade’s explanation of villagewide collective action is incomplete. We complement his strictly ecological explanation with a sociological perspective and show that intervillage competition is an important condition for villagewide collective action.

RANTALA, Kati (1998), "Art As Communicative Practice for Teenagers", YOUNG - Nordic Journal of Youth Research, 6, 4. (online at : http://www.alli.fi/nyri/young/1998-4/articleRantala4-98.htm)

RANTALA, Kati and HELLSTRÖM, Eeva (2001), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis - a Hermeneutic Approach to Interview Data", International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 4, 2, 87-100.

RANTALA, Kati and HELLSTRÖM, Eeva (7.1998), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis and a Hermeneutic Approach to Interview Data", paper presented at : Fourth ISA World Congress of Sociology, Session ‘The Computerized Analysis of Textual Records’, Montréal,

RAUNIO, tapio (2005), "Holding Governments Accountable in European Affairs: Explaining Cross-National Variation", Journal of Legislative Studies, 11, 3-4, 319-342.
Abstract:What factors explain cross-national variation in the level of parliamentary scrutiny of governments in European affairs? Using the fuzzy-set method developed by Charles C. Ragin, this article investigates the impact of five variables – the power of parliament independent of integration, public opinion on membership, party positions on integration, frequency of minority governments and political culture – identified in previous literature as relevant in explaining variation in the level of control. The strength of the parliament emerges as the only necessary cause in producing tighter scrutiny, while the combination of a powerful legislature and a more Euro-sceptical public opinion is sufficient in bringing about higher levels of control over the government. The final section summarises the main findings and concludes with a critical discussion on both the data and the validity of cross-national explanations, particularly in light of the recent enlargement of the Union.

Rayane, Laurence and Sylvie Scheman, "Etude de l'article:"Children's First Names: An Empirical Study of Social Taste" de Stanley Lieberson et Eleanor O. Bell." (2002):2002.

REDDING, Kent and VITERNA, Jocelyn S. (12.1999), "Political Demands, Political Opportunities: Explaining the Differential Success of Left-Libertarian Parties", Social Forces, 78, 2, 491-510.

REGOECZI, Wendy C. and MIETHE, Terance D. (2003), "Taking on the Unkown. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Unknown Relationship Homicides.", Homicide Studies, 7, 3, 211-234.
Abstract: Aside from noting the dramatic rise in their numbers, homicides with unknown victim/offender relationships have attracted little research attention. This study uses Qualitative Comparative Analysis and data from the Supplementary Homicide Reports for 1976 through 1998 to examine the nature of unknown relationshiphomicides and changes in their structure over time. The findings indicate that a large number of unknown relationship cases are contained within a few prevalent homicide situations while also occurring in a diverse array of less common situations. The situational context of unknown homicides exhibits considerable change over time, shifting from the killing of older White males with a variety of weapons to killings involving young Black males with guns. Although unknown and stranger homicides frequently share common structures, they demonstrate notable differences as well, suggesting that unknown relationships cannot automatically be assumed to involve strangers. Implications of the findings for policy and future research are discussed.

RIGO, Laurence (2001), Analyse des défaites électorales du Parti Social Chrétien (PSC) de 1944 à 1999: un parti en déclin?, Louvain-la-Neuve, Université Catholique de Louvain (unpublished). (Dissertation, unpublished)

RIHOUX, Benoît (1999), La transformation de l'organisation des partis écologistes en Europe Occidentale. Contribution à une théorie du changement partisan, Département des Sciences Politiques et Sociales, Université catholique de Louvain (unpublished).

---------- (2001), Les partis politiques : organisations en changement. Le test des écologistes, Coll. Logiques Politiques, Paris, L'Harmattan.

---------- (2.5.2001), "Les partis écologistes en Europe : un cas d'école pour l'analyse du changement dans les organisations partisanes", paper presented at : Conférence des Lundis du CEVIPOF (Fondation Nationale des Sciences Politiques, CNRS) 2000-2001, "Les partis politiques en France et en Europe", session "Les partis écologistes en France et en Europe", Paris,

---------- (5.16.2001), "Een diepgaande toepassing van QCA : de verklaring van de organisationële "transformatie" van Groene partijen in Westeuropa", paper presented at : Doctorandusseminarie, Faculteit Sociale Wetenschappen, KULeuven, Leuven,

---------- (9.6.2001/9.8.2001), "Comparing the Organizational 'Transformation' of Green Parties", paper presented at : ECPR 2001 General Conference, Panel on "Green Parties", Canterbury (UK),

---------- (10.5.2001), "Pourquoi les organisations changent-elles? Analyse d’un “cas d’école”: les partis écologistes en Europe", paper presented at : Séminaire de recherche du Laboratoire d'Analyse des Systèmes de Communication d'Organisation (LASCO), Louvain-la-Neuve,

________, "Towards a Realist Theory of Change in Institutionalizing Party Organizations: the Green Test Case." (2001):2001.

---------- (4.12.2002), "Why Do Party Organizations Change? From Iron Laws to Multiple Conjunctural Causation", paper presented at : Workshop at the Dept of Sociology and Dept of Political Science, Tucson, Arizona (USA),

---------- (06.06.2011/06.10.2011), "Systematically Comparing ‘Thick’ Multi-Level Cases of Water Governance Regimes: the Potential of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", paper presented at : Keynote Speech at the ESF Conference on 'Water Governance Meeting the Challenges of Global Change', Session on 'Methods for Comparative Analyses of Multi-Level Water Governance Regimes', University Centre Obergurgl, Austria,
Abstract: Analyzing multi-level water governance regimes raises several thorny methodological challenges. Indeed the multi-level nature of such regimes is only the ‘tip of the iceberg’ of their complexity, or only one dimension of or only one way to conceptualize this complexity. There are many other dimensions of complexity, e.g. the ‘nested’ nature of some constituent parts, the changing or fuzzy boundaries, the open-ended and non-linear interaction between individuals, organizations, institutions and ecosystems (being themselves complex and ‘open’), the interconnections between the ‘cases’ (regimes) and therefore the presence of diffusion/contagion, learning processes, … This paper seeks to examine to what extent QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis), both as an approach and as a set of techniques, could add leverage to analyze this complexity across cases of water governance regimes, in particular in «intermediate-N» research designs which seem to be particularly relevant in this field. To do so, QCA is first briefly presented. Then, a few existing empirical applications connected to water management policies and regimes (and more generally natural resources governance regimes) are surveyed, in order to identify some of their strengths and limitations. Third, concrete proposals are made to exploit further the potential of QCA to address more fully the issue(s) of complexity, in particular by engaging QCA more fully in a «dialogue with the cases».

RIHOUX, Benoit and JOLY, Jeroen (05.08.2007/05.11.2007), "Identifying Regularities in Complex Macro-Phenomena : a Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of Community Conflicts Escalation and De-Escalation in Post-WWII Europe", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops, Helsinki,

---------- (05.26.2007), "L’identification de régularités dans les phénomènes macrosociaux complexes: une analyse QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) de l’escalade et la désescalade des conflits communautaires en Europe [Identifying Regularities in Complex Macro-Phenomena : a Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of Community Conflicts Escalation and De-Escalation in Post-WWII Europe]", paper presented at : 2eme Congrès International Des Associations Francophones De Science Politique, Université Laval, Québec,

RIHOUX, Benoît (5.10.2003), "Innovative Methods for Policy Research. The Added Value of Systematic Cross-Case Analysis", paper presented at : Distinguished guest lecture for the Erfurt School of Public Policy, Universität Erfurt, Germany,

---------- (5.10.2004), "Innovative Methods for Policy Research. The Added Value of Configurational Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : Distinguised guest lecture for the Erfurt School of Public Policy, Universität Erfurt, Germany,

---------- (5.10.2004), "Innovative Methods for Policy Research. The Added Value of Systematic Cross-Case Analysis", paper presented at : Distinguised guest lecture for the Erfurt School of Public Policy, Universität Erfurt, Germany,

---------- (2006), "Governmental Participation and the Organisational Adaptation of Green Parties : on Access, Slack, Overload and Distress", European Journal for Political Research, 45, S, s69-s98.

---------- (01.12.2007/01.13.2007), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) : Getting More Out of Systematic Comparison of Cases for the GDN Projects", paper presented at : Global Development Network, Workshop on Methodology for Comparative Analysis, Beijing,
Abstract: This paper aims to present Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), the most frequently applied Configurational Comparative Analysis (CCA) technique, and to establish concrete connections with the GDN projects, in particular the “Understanding Reform” project. For this purpose, a conceptually oriented introduction to QCA is first offered. Two analytic procedures commonly used by comparative researchers (and which constitute a key foundation of QCA) are presented and contrasted with correlational analysis, the main analytical engine of mainstream (e.g. regression-based) quantitative social science. Second, a quick overview of the state of the art is provided, so as to show the diversity and scope of QCA applications. Third, a published application is used to illustrate the key steps of a standard QCA procedure. Fourth, some recent developments, as well as some key prospects of QCA, are laid out. Finally, some concrete suggestions are made as how to exploit the potential of QCA and linked techniques in support of the “Understanding Reform” project.

RIHOUX, Benoît, DUMONT, Patrick, and DANDOY, Régis (4.13.2004/4.18.2004), "Mass Media, Party Manifestos and Governmental Agreements in Belgium in the 1990s: an Exploratory Qualitative Comparative (QCA) and Regression Analysis", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops, Workshop on "Political Agenda-Setting and the Media", Uppsala,

---------- (2005), "L'effet des médias et des programmes de partis sur le contenu des accords de gouvernement, 1991-1999: particratie ou médiacratie ? [The impact of the mass media and the party programmes on the content of governmental agreements, 1991-1999: particracy or mediacracy?]", in WALGRAVE, Stefaan, DE WINTER, Lieven, and NUYTEMANS, Michiel (Eds), Mise à l'agenda politique en Belgique (1991-1999). Le dialogue difficile entre l'opinion publique, les médias et le système politique, Gand, Academia Press, Federaal wetenschapsbeleid, pp. 123-148.

RIHOUX, Benoît and FÉRON, Elise (forthcoming [chapter within this book project, being elaborated for the ECPR Research Methods Series, Palgrave]), "Configurational Comparative Methods for Conflict Studies: From Thick Description to 'Causal' Patterns", in FÉRON, Elise and RIHOUX, Benoît (eds), Methodologies for Conflict Studies

RIHOUX, Benoît and YAMASAKI, Sakura (2003), "Participation gouvernementale et adaptation organisationnelle: une analyse quali-quantitative comparée des partis écologistes en Europe occidentale", Res Publica, XLV, 1, 143-171.

ROMAIN, Patrick (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "A QCA Analysis of the Influence of “Socio-Pedagogical” Variables on “Value Transmission” by Mathematics Teachers in Belgian French-Speaking High Schools", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract:Mathematics courses are not only concerned with the transmission of mathematical knowledge. Teachers value certain aspects of this knowledge, rather than some others. For example, some will insist on abilities like abstracting, conducting a logical reasoning, working intensively, …, or on attitudes like precision, rigor, care. This paper will explore how socio-pedagogical variables favor the teacher broadcasting some of these “values”. Various conditions may be taken into account. Some are internal to the teacher: he is motivated; he has a long experience in mathematics teaching. Others are external: pupils are disciplined; their families are comfortably off; the curriculum is more or less intensive in mathematics. Our cases will be a small number (~12) of high school teachers in Belgium (year 2002-2003). We carry out a range of QCA analyses, involving given sets of condition variables and several result (dependant) variables related to different aspects of the values transmission.

ROSCIGNO, Vincent J. and HODSON, Randy (2004 ), "The Organizational and Social Foundations of Worker Resistance", American Sociological Review, 69, 14-39.

ROUHANA, Rima (2009), The Design of the Performance Monitoring Systems in Hospitals: a Contingent Comparative Approach, Liege, Editions de l'Université de Liege.
Abstract: Our research applies to the healthcare sector which is operating in a period of significant and rapid evolutions since the last thirty years. It investigates the design of the performance monitoring systems in healthcare organizations, in a contingent and comparative perspectives. This contribution summarizes the results of four chapters and uses respectively three methodologies, applied to answer the following “what” and “how” general questions: - What influences the design of the performance monitoring systems adopted in the healthcare organizations? - How does it evolve with the hospital’s attributes evolution? - What are the major internal and external motivations and/or the major barriers that have emphasized and/or limited its evolution? - What is the role of the healthcare players on the hospital’s management? In a contingent perspective, the first chapter, based on macro-economic analysis of the healthcare sector, identifies the increasing need to monitor performance at the hospital entity level. It points out to some social, political, technological and competitive contingent factors that have emerged from the environmental mutations. These contingent factors are then integrated in an original unifying model that is validated via three empirical chapters. - The first chapter is dedicated to the contingent model’s validation in the Belgian healthcare sector. It investigates the link between these variables and the management tools, via an online questionnaire, a test of information and a test of independence. - The second chapter appraises the manager’s perception of uncertainty in volatile environments and analyzes the impact of some contingent factors affecting his decision-making style. It relies on the contingency theory of leadership that is applied to assess the external environmental mutations that are manipulating the organizational attributes (structure, size, level of technology and ownership). Hence, they are emerging certain situations of uncertainty that shape the managerial choices (“decision style”, autonomy and personal profile) on the adoption of a suitable management system. The methodology is based on a “qualitative comparative approach” of thirty case studies, lead in two heterogeneous environments (Belgium and Lebanon). - The last empirical chapter goes beyond the organizational attributes to investigate the role and impact of the various players who are involved in healthcare organizations. Based on a qualitative approach, we illustrate, for every player, his position within the system. Consequently, we define his culture, intentions, and responsiveness that manipulate the organization’s internal climate and shape the design of the performance monitoring systems. Out of twenty-two case studies, the qualitative findings are expected to add knowledge on the adequate choice of a management system, within three healthcare organizational structures: university, general/university and general hospitals.

ROUHANA, Rima and VAN CAILLIE, Didier (2009), "The Design of the Performance Monitoring System in Hospitals: Managers’ Perception of Uncertainty in Volatile Environments",
Abstract: In a period of significant and rapid changes, an hospital is in pursuit of providing better services through delivering the best quality of care at low costs (Kimberly and Zajac, 1985; Starr, 1982; WHO, 2000). From a macroeconomic point of view, nations, despite their diversity, are facing an increase of health care spending at a faster rate than national wealth. This increase is resuming due to many factors such as the higher household revenues, the aging of the population, the appearance of new disabling illnesses, etc. (Nolte et al., 2003). As a consequence, governments are developing rationalized policies that aim to better manage the rise in health spending, in an attempt to better manage the shift of the supply (resources supply) and the demand for healthcare services. Since, once these factors occur, the cycle of the hospital’s entity (organization) is disturbed; hence, actions must be taken to correct deviations (Anthony, 1965; Drucker, 1955; Daft and Macintosh, 1984; Koontz and O'Donnell, 1976). Monitoring the hospital’s performance appears then evolving over time, to a reform in pursuit of more efficiency. In this perspective, the hospital’s top managements are designing their management control systems (MCSs) to help their organizations combining three potentially divergent conceptual approaches: a “customer” one, an “economic” one and a “budgetary” one, to achieve a leading positioning. Given that, today’s hospital performance is expected to include elements of community care and public health, as well as the social and the employment functions. Management control is thus becoming increasingly complex across the healthcare industry. From integrated patient care, to reducing costs and keeping stuff up-to-date, hospital’s administrators are using many dissimilar systems (Pfeffer and Salancik, 1977; Roemer and Schonik, 1973) to manage and stimulate performance (Robson, 2003). Dedicated to this subject, we rely on the concept of monitoring performance and the contingency theory (the notion of creating an equilibrium of fit in organizations), to appraise the manager’s perception of uncertainty in volatile environments (Galbraith 1977). From this starting point, the first prime interest of our study is then to analyze the impact of several contingent factors on the manager’s decision making concerning the design of a suitable MCS, in a hospital context. Consistent with each variable, we then elaborate our hypotheses, in the second part of this communication, while considering the assets and the limits of the contemporary systems versus the traditional tools already in use within hospitals. We finally investigate the manager’s choice while resting on the qualitative/quantitative comparative approach (QQCA) of thirty case studies, lead in two different environments (Belgium and Lebanon).

RUBENZER, Trevor (2008), "Ethnic Minority Interest Group Attributes and U.S. Foreign Policy Influence: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Foreign Policy Analysis, 4, 2, 169-185.
Abstract: To what extent are ethnic identity groups able to influence U.S. foreign policy toward their ancestral homelands? Existing research has resulted in the enumeration of an extensive list of criteria thought to condition ethnic minority influence. In spite of significant progress, however, the literature lacks of systematic test of any of these criteria. The result is a literature that cumulates largely though the addition of new criteria, rather than the reevaluation of existing factors. The current study represents an attempt to develop a test of existing criteria though the application of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA). Specifically, the study uses QCA to examine six of the most widely cited criteria found in the literature. Results indicate that, of the six criteria, only organizational strength and level of political activity are necessary conditions for successful influence. No individual factors are sufficient causes of influence.

RUDD, Murray (6.17.2002/6.22.2002), "Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for Fishery Sustainability - a Fuzzy Qualitative Comparative Analysis of International Tropical Artisanal Fisheries", paper presented at : IASCP 2002 Conference, Harare, Zimbabwe,
Abstract: Assessing the impacts of ecological and social causal factors on fishery sustainability is complicated because of environmental complexity and the uncertain and/or qualitative nature of much of the data. This research uses a recent innovative methodology, fuzzy qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), to test the necessary and sufficient conditions for inshore tropical artisanal fishery sustainability. Necessary conditions are those that are present each time ‘sustainability’ is observed. In set theory terms, instances of the outcome (sustainability) are a subset of instances of the causal variable(s). Sufficient conditions are those such that when a specific causal variable(s) is present, sustainable fisheries are observed. That is, instances of the cause are a subset of instances of the outcome. Two independent variables are used as proxies for ‘sustainability’ in this research: fish stock ‘health’ and the degree of rent capture. Six classes of causal factors are examined: the ecological ‘robustness’ of target species; fishing pressure; local environmental conditions; the orientation of fisheries rules and regulations; social capital/community capacity; and the institutional capacity of fisheries governance organizations. Independent and causal variables are coded on a scale of 1 to 5 (e.g., a code of 2 might indicate that a fish species is inherently ‘quite vulnerable’ while a score of 5 would indicate that a species is very robust in the face of a variety of pressures). Cases for this meta-analysis were drawn from the literature, including over 200 cases from a variety of tropical fisheries in the Caribbean, South Pacific, Southeast Asia and Indian Ocean. The use of fuzzy sets (i.e., x ? [0,1]) is used to translate ratings into set memberships and increases the number of cases that can be included in the analysis. A fishery with ‘quite low’ fishing pressure, for instance, may still have membership of 0.2 in the set of fisheries with ‘high’ pressure. This permits more powerful statistical analysis of qualitative, uncertain and/or linguistic data (e.g., local ecological knowledge) otherwise outside of the realm of empirical analyses. The results of this analysis highlight the importance of considering both social and ecological causal variables in analyses of sustainable fishery management regimes. The fuzzy QCA methodology helps develop deeper insights into the causal linkages between ecological and socio-economic variables and outcomes. As such, it can help overcome methodological limitations of both small-n case studies and large-n statistical analyses, and should play an increasingly important part in the institutional analysis of common property systems in the future.

RUDEL, Thomas K. (2005), Tropical Forests. Regional Paths of Destruction and Regeneration in the Late Twentieth Century, New York, Columbia University Press.

RUDEL, Thomas K. and ROPER, Jill (1996), "Regional Patterns and Historical Trends in Tropical Deforestation, 1976-1990: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Ambio, 25 , 3, 160-166.
Abstract: Reports of tropical deforestation indicate that it occurs in diverse circumstances which obscure underlying patterns of causation. Cross-national statistical analyses do not reveal these patterns because they can not investigate how causal factors interact with each other in specific contexts. Undert hese circumstancesa qualitativec omparatives tudy of tropical deforestation might be useful. Drawing on qualitative sources, we classify countries with tropical forests on a series of attributes. Using Boolean algebra, we look for cross-national similarities in processes of deforestation, creating sets of countries with similar processes. This analysis pointst o the importanceo f interior locations in Africa and South America for forest preservation, suggests that the retreat of small, remnant forests into rugged topography has not slowed deforestation, and indicates that stronger forest-protection policies may have reduced deforestation. A regional analysis finds distinct patterns of tropical deforestation in Asia, East Africa, West Africa, Central America/Caribbean, and South America. The West African and Central American patterns are quite similar. The policy implications of these findings are briefly considered.

RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (1991), "Different Methods - Contradictory Results? Research on Development and Democracy", in RAGIN, Charles C. (ed.), Issues and Alternatives in Comparative Social Research, Leiden, E.J. Brill, pp. 9-38.

RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich ( 2003), "Can One or a Few Cases Yield Theoretical Gains", in MAHONEY, James, MAHONEY, James, and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 305-336.

SAGER, Fritz (2002), "Which Metropolitan Polity For Which Politics? The Co-Ordination of Land Use and Transport Policies in Four Swiss Urban Areas in Comparison", paper presented at : Workshop No. 12 "The Politics of Metropolitan Governance". ECPR Joint Session, Turin, Italy,
Abstract:The paper addresses the question of how different metropolitan institutional settings affect the quality of political negociation processes their policy decisions. Two opposing ideal types of metropolitan government institutions are conceptualized: On the one hand the public choice model that stands for a decentralized, non-professional, and politically dependent administration in fragmented urban areas, and on the other hand the neoprogressive model that stands for direct public service production by centralized and professionalized bureaucracies within consolidated municipalities. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of nine decision cases in four Swiss urban areas uncovers three main results: voluntary, positive, and policy driven co-ordination and well coordinated policy solutions are found in centralized rather than decentralized institutional settings, in fragmented rather than consolidated metropolitan areas, and in project structures with a strict separation of the political sphere of negotiating from the technical sphere rather than in negotiations without such clear distinction. This institutional constellation is described as 'hierarchically embedded epistemic communities'. However, solely under very specific institutional conditions these well coordinated solutions are also implemented. The findings must be put into perspective in two ways. On the one hand, the positive effect of fragmentation on the quality of deliberation is unique to Switzerland due to Switzerland's very strong federalism. On the other hand, the importance of bureaucratic autonomy is due to Switzerland's marked tradition of a weak state. The result in general, however, promote the neoprogressive model of metropolitan government institutions rather than the public choice model.

SAGER, Fritz (2004), "Institutions métropolitaines et coordination des politiques publiques: une AQQC des arrangements politico-administratifs d'articulation entre urbanisme et transports en Europe", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 67-84.

---------- (2004), "Metropolitan Institutions and Policy Coordination: the Integration of Land Use and Transport Policies in Swiss Urban Areas", Governance: An International Journal of Policy, Administration, and Institutions, 18, 2, 227-256.

---------- (2006), "Policy Coordination in the European Metropolis: a Meta-Analysis", West European Politics, 29, 3, 433-460.

SAGER, Fritz and ANDEREGGEN, Céline (2011 (forthcoming)), "Dealing With Complex Causality in Realist Synthesis: The Promise of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", American Journal of Evaluation, 13,
Abstract: In this paper, we state two arguments: first, that the four categories of context, politics, polity and policy make an adequate framework for systematic review being both exhaustive and parsimonious; second, that the method of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) is an appropriate methodical approach for gaining realistic results that are useful for political practice. Instead of providing unsatisfactory monocausal explanations, the approach identifies different combinations of conditions leading to a given outcome. We illustrate our points with a two-step multi-value QCA (mvQCA) of 17 transport policy cases in Switzerland.

SAMFORD, S. (Sep 2010), "Averting "Disruption and Reversal": Reassessing the Logic of Rapid Trade Reform in Latin America", Politics & Society, 38, 3, 373-407.
Abstract: This study revisits the debate on trade reform in Latin America, focusing specifically on what combinations of conditions were necessary and sufficient for very rapid trade liberalization. It departs significantly from two types of studies that have been previously used to examine Latin American trade reform: (1) those using large samples and linear statistics to test the mean effects of variables on levels of trade protection and (2) those isolating necessary conditions for rapid reform but using a small number of case studies. Using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis and short case studies, the study considers trade policy in sixty-one administrations. It finds that a key motivating factor for rapid trade opening is potential resistance from protected industry; it further identifies several other important enabling conditions, such as hyperinflation, devaluation, and an unconstrained executive. In combination, these enabling conditions are sufficient to account for a high percentage of rapid reform episodes.

SCHARPF, Fritz W. (2000), "Institutions in Comparative Policy Research", MPIfG Working Papers, 00/3. (online at : http://www.mpi-fg-koeln.mpg.de/pu/workpap/wp00-3/wp00-3.html)

SCHEKER, Ancell (03.22.2009), "Educational Reform and Teachers’ Decision Making: Relationship Between the Intended and the Implemented Reading Curriculum in Dominican Schools", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Annual Meeting of the 53rd Annual Conference of the Comparative and International Education Society, Charleston, South Carolina,
Abstract:The purpose of this dissertation is to characterize and analyze the specific implementation decisions made by teachers in Dominican primary schools as they set out to put into action the intended reading curriculum. A new curriculum was developed in 1995 as part of a Ten-Year Plan to reform the educational system. The study attempts to reveal how the curriculum is implemented across schools and what configuration of conditions influence teachers’ decisions regarding what to teach and how to teach reading comprehension. It would contribute to improving our understanding about curriculum policy and the complex relationship between the intended and the implemented curriculum. Thus the research questions are:
-To what extent are there different implementation patterns of the intended (official) reading curriculum?
- Can such patterns (of decisions regarding implementation of the curriculum) be characterized as belonging to certain identifiable pedagogical perspectives promoted by current or previous curriculum policy?
- What configurations of teacher’s characteristics and school characteristics have a role in determining patterns of implementation?
The framework adopted by this study assumes that policy implementation is not a linear and vertical process. Local actors or implementing agents are also policymakers in that their decisions and actions shape how policies play out in practice (Lipsky 1980; Coburn 2006; Honig 2006). Teachers try to make sense of the policy (Spillane et al 2002) and make decisions based on their understanding and the characteristics of their context. Therefore the intention of the study is to show empirical evidence of this complex process by analyzing teachers’ reading curriculum decisions and the factors and conditions that may be determining different implementation patterns. The study uses data collected through teachers’ questionnaires by the Educational Evaluation and Research Consortium (EERC) study conducted from 2005 to 2007. A total of 1395 questionnaires of teachers in 4th, 5th and 6th grade from a representative sample of 200 schools in different strata -in public rural, public urban, and accredited private schools- will be analyzed. Principals Components Analysis (PCA) will be used to make clusters and identify implementation patterns of the reading curriculum based on teachers’ decisions regarding contents, classroom activities, teaching strategies, performance expectations, homework and assessment. Once different implementation patterns are identified and categorized, Qualitative Comparative Analysis fuzzy sets (fsQCA) will be used to identify the conditions that may explain different implementation patterns. Those conditions are related to teacher characteristics (teacher’s education, teacher in-service training, experience, perception of student’s preparation, use of textbooks and curriculum policy documents for lesson planning) and school characteristics (instructional resources available, instructional time, frequency of staff meetings or supervision for professional development, and strata - public rural, public urban, accredited private). The goal is to link conditions to outcomes (different implementation patterns) and understand this relationship. This dissertation responds to the demand for research that focuses on the conditions and the dynamics that make possible for education policies and reforms to influence instructional practices.

SCHENSUL, J. J., CHANDRAN, D., SINGH, S. K., BERG, M., SINGH, S., and GUPTA, K. (Aug 2010), "The Use of Qualitative Comparative Analysis for Critical Event Research in Alcohol and HIV in Mumbai, India", Aids and Behavior, 14, 113-125.
Abstract: In this paper we use Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) in critical event analysis to identify under what conditions alcohol is necessary in contributing to unprotected sex. The paper is based on a set of in-depth interviews with 84 men aged 18 = 29 from three typical low income communities in Mumbai who reported using alcohol and having sex with at least one nonspousal partner once or more in the 30 days prior to the interview. The interviews included narratives of critical events defined as recent (past 30-60 day) events involving sexual behavior with or without alcohol. The paper identifies themes related to alcohol, sexuality and condom use, uses QCA to identify and explain configurations leading to protected and unprotected sex, and explains the differences. The analysis shows that alcohol alone is not sufficient to explain any cases involving unprotected sex but alcohol in combination with partner type and contextual factors does explain unprotected sex for subsets of married and unmarried men.

SCHERRER, Vanessa (2006), Citoyens sous tensions. Analyse qualitative des rapports à la politique et des configurations d'appartenances à partir d'entretiens projectifs sur les proches, Paris, Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris (unpublished).
Abstract: micro.

SCHIFFINO, Nathalie and YAMASAKI, Sakura (11.24.2003/11.26.2003), "A Methodological Tool in Policy Analysis: Application of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to GMO and ART Policies in Belgium and France", paper presented at : Austrian Sociological Association Congress 2003, Vienna, Austria,

SCHIMMELFENNIG, Franck, RITTBERGER, Berthold, BURGIN, Alexander, and SCHWELLNUS, Guido (2006), "Conditions for EU Constitutionalization: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Journal of European Public Policy, 13, 8, 1168-1189.
Abstract: This article probes the conditions conducive to the constitutionalization of the European Union: under what conditions have the powers of the European Parliament been extended and the institutionalization of human rights progressed? Based on the assumption that the constitutionalization of the EU is best understood as the outcome of strategic action in a community environment, we argue that progress in constitutionalization depends on the salience of the EU’s democracy deficit, the coherence of demands for constitutionalization with extant EU or external norms, and the publicity of negotiations and deliberations.We test this constitutionalization hypothesis in a qualitative comparative analysis offering a systematic diachronic and synchronic comparison of sixty-six constitutional decisions between 1951 and 2004 across different areas of parliamentary competence and human rights issues. The findings corroborate the constitutionalization hypothesis and suggest that salience and, more recently, coherence are the most relevant conditions of EU constitutionalization.

SCHIMMELFENNIG, Frank (6.24.2004/6.26.2004), "The Impact of EU Democratic Conditionality in Central and Eastern Europe: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis", paper presented at : Second Pan-European Conference, Standing Group on EU Politics, Bologna,

SCHIMMELFENNIG, Frank (2006), "The International Promotion of Political Norms in Eastern Europe: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Central and Eastern European Working Papers, Center for European Studies, Harvard, 61, 1-21.
Abstract: Since the end of the Cold War, European regional organizations have been engaged in promoting the core norms of the emerging pan-European liberal international community in Eastern Europe: democracy and human rights (including minority rights) and the peaceful and integrative settlement of international and interethnic conflicts. When were these efforts effective? Starting from the two most prominent models in the literature on international norm promotion–the social learning model and the external incentives model–the paper uses Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to examine the conditions under which governments in eastern Europe have complied with the political demands of European regional organizations. It shows that a credible perspective of EU and/or NATO accession combined with low political adaptation costs for the target governments was a sufficient condition for compliance; it thus corroborates the external incentives model. However, in the final phase of accession negotiations, a positive identification with the West proved sufficient as well–even when compliance threatened the survival of the government. By contrast, the other conditions of the social learning model (legitimacy and resonance) were irrelevant to the effectiveness of international norm promotion.

SCHLAGER, Edella and HEIKKILA, Tanya (2009), "Resolving Water Conflicts: A Comparative Analysis of Interstate River Compacts", The Policy Studies Journal, 37, 3, 367-392.
Abstract: Policymakers and academics often identify institutional boundaries as one of the factors that shape the capacity of jurisdictions to manage natural resources such as water, forests, and scenic lands. This article examines two key bodies of literature - common-pool resource management theory and local public economy theory - to explain how the boundaries of political jurisdictions affect natural resource management. Two empirical methods were used to test hypotheses from the literature, using a study of water management programs in California. The results demonstrate that institutional boundaries that coincide with natural resources are likely to be associated with the implementation of more effective resource management programs. At the same time, where jurisdictions can control through coordination, they can also facilitate more effective resource management where jurisdictions do not match resource boundaries. © 2004 by the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management.

SCHLICHT, Raphaela (12.2007), "Educational Federalism in Germany: Foundations of Social Inequality of Education", paper presented at : Workshop on Comparative Methods: Constructing Concepts and Using QCA, University of Bern,

SCHNEIDER, Carsten Q. and ROHLFING, Ingo (09.10.2009/09.12.2009), "Explainig Party Competition: A Multi-Method Approach Combining Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and Case Studies", paper presented at : ECPR General Conference, Potsdam,

SCHNEIDER, Carsten Q. and WAGEMANN, Claudius (9.25.2004/9.28.2004), "Causal Complexity and Policy Analysis: Making Use of Remote and Proximate Causal Conditions", paper presented at : ESF Exploratory Workshop on "Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis. And Interdisciplinary European Endeavour for Methodological Advances and Improved Policy Analysis/Evaluation", Erfurt, Germany,

SCHNEIDER, M. R., SCHULZE-BENTROP, C., and PAUNESCU, M. (2010), "Mapping the Institutional Capital of High-Tech Firms: a Fuzzy-Set Analysis of Capitalist Variety and Export Performance", Journal of International Business Studies, 41, 2, 246-266.
Abstract: We examine how institutional configurations, not single institutions, provide companies with institutional capital. Building on the varieties-of-capitalism approach, it is argued that competitive advantage in high-tech industries with radical innovation may be supported by combinations of certain institutional conditions: lax employment protection, weak collective bargaining coverage, extensive university training, little occupational training, and a large stock market. Furthermore, multinational enterprises engage in "institutional arbitrage'': they allocate their activities so as to benefit from available institutional capital. These hypotheses are tested on country-level data for 19 OECD economies in the period 1990 to 2003. A fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis yields several interesting findings. A high share of university graduates and a large stock market are complementary institutions leading to strong export performance in high-tech. Employment protection is neither conducive nor harmful to export performance in high-tech. A high volume of cross-border mergers and acquisitions, as a form of institutional arbitrage leading to knowledge flows, acts as a functional equivalent to institutions that support knowledge production in the home economy. Implications of these findings for theory, policy, and the analysis of firm-level behavior are developed.

SCHRUM, Wesley and CHOMPALOV, Ivan (10.22.1998/10.25.1998), "A Typology of Multi-Institutional Collaborations in Science", paper presented at : History of Science Society Annual Meeting, Kansas City. (abstract at : http://depts.washington.edu/hssexec/annual/1998/abstracts98p6.html)
Abstract: The paper presents an attempt at constructing a typology of multi-institutional collaborations in science, focusing on such arrangements in the physical sciences. It examines the sociological aspects of the emergence, development, and relative success of cooperative arrangements that involve three or more organizations. Data from a long-term study of multi-institutional collaborations are used to typologize inter-organization formations in high-energy physics, space science, geophysics, ground-based astronomy, and a variety of other research fields. Using cluster analysis and qualitative comparative analysis, collaborative projects are characterized along several dimensions: magnitude, composition, organization, centralization and power, participation, communication patterns, inter personal and professional relations, data acquisition, and archival practices.

SCHWEIZER, Thomas (1991), "The Power Struggle in a Chinese Community, 19501980: A Social Network Analysis of the Duality of Actors and Events", Journal of Quantitative Anthropology, 3, 19-44.

SCHWELLNUS, Guido, BALAZS, L., and MIKALAYEVA, L. (2009), "It Ain't Over When It's Over: the Adoption and Sustainability of Minority Protection Rules in New Eu Member States", European Integration Online Papers-EIOP, 13,
Abstract: This paper conducts a multi-value Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of the formal adoption and sustainability of minority protection rules in four new EU member states (Poland, Romania, Estonia, Latvia) over a twelve-year period including pre- and post-accession phases (1997-2008) and five minority protection related issue areas (nondiscrimination, language use, education, citizenship, integration of Roma) based on four conditions (external incentives, government position, veto players, size of minorities), in order to investigate under which external and domestic conditions minority protection and nondiscrimination measures are adopted, maintained or revoked in new member states before and after accession to the EU.

SCHÄFFER, Sebastian ( 2007), Determinanten des Erfolgs demokratischer Revolutionen, Wiesbaden, GRIN Verlag.
Abstract:Können Gründe gefunden werden, die für den Erfolg der demokratischen Revolutionen ausschlaggebend sind? Gibt es eine ?Checkliste?, die abgearbeitet werden muss, damit ein friedlicher Übergang durch Massendemonstrationen zur Demokratie, also eine demokratische Revolution, ermöglicht wird? Welche Faktoren determinieren den Erfolg von demokratischen Revolutionen? Dabei lautet die These, dass den demokratischen Revolutionen ein bestimmtes Muster zugrunde liegt. Innerhalb dieses Musters müssen bestimmte Faktoren gegeben sein, damit eine demokratische Revolution erfolgreich ist. Revolutionen zeichnen sich vor der zweiten Hälfte des 20. Jahrhunderts insbesondere durch die Anwendung von Gewalt von Seiten der Revolutionäre aus. Des Weiteren sind endogene Übergänge zur Demokratie vor diesem Zeitraum eher untypisch. Für die Analyse wird die abhängige Variable "erfolgreiche demokratische Revolution" als der Versuch, einen gewaltlosen Systemwechsel von innen, hin zu einer konsolidierten Demokratie durch die Beteiligung der Massen der Bevölkerung herbeizuführen, definiert. Dazu werden neun unabhängige Variablen identifiziert, die für den Erfolg einer demokratischen Revolution entscheidend sind. Die Zusammenhänge zwischen den unabhängigen Variablen und dem Erfolg einer demokratischen Revolution lassen sich mit Hilfe der von dem amerikanischen Sozialwissenschaftler Charles C. Ragin entwickelten Methode der Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) veranschaulichen. Zunächst wird eine Definition demokratischer Revolutionen erarbeitet. Diese wird dann in einen theoretischen Rahmen eingebunden. Darüber hinaus werden die für den Erfolg demokratischer Revolutionen notwendigen Faktoren identifiziert. In einem nächsten Schritt wird die Fallauswahl begründet. Dadurch können drei Phasen demokratischer Revolutionen definiert werden. Danach werden die identifizierten abhängigen Variablen für eine erfolgreiche respektive gescheiterte demokratische Revolution operationalisiert. Dann wird die Methode QCA vorgestellt und die Auswertung der identifizierten unabhängigen Variablen auf die Fälle und deren Ergebnisse präsentiert Abschließend werden die Determinanten des Erfolgs demokratischer Revolutionen, die sich aus der Analyse mit QCA ergeben, bewertet und im empirisch überprüft. Darüber hinaus soll die Methode QCA auf ihre Anwendbarkeit evaluiert werden.

SCHÜTZ, Holger (2008), "Modellvielfalt in Der Arbeitsvermittlung? : Eine Untersuchung Von Politikstrategien Von Arbeitsagenturen", Arbeit : Zeitschrift Für Arbeitsforschung, Arbeitsgestaltung Und Arbeitspolitik, 17, 3, 180-192/.

---------- (2008), Reform der Arbeitsvermittlung. Uniformierungsdruck in der Bundesagentur für Arbeit,Budrich UniPress.
Abstract: Die jüngeren Reformen der Arbeitsvermittlung und Arbeitsverwaltung im SGB III Bereich stehen im Zentrum dieser institutionalistisch konzipierten Policy-Analyse. Die Strategien und Praxis der Arbeitsvermittlung gleichen sich im Zuge der zentralistischen ?Hartz-Reformen? immer stärker aneinander an. Die Angleichungsprozesse verringern die Vielfalt der Vermittlungsmodelle der lokalen Arbeitsagenturen und damit das kreative Potential der Organisation Bundesagentur für Arbeit. Das Theorem des institutionellen Isomorphismus wird genutzt, um die Uniformisierungstendenzen zu erklären; die innovative Methode der Fuzzy-Set-Idealtypen-Analyse wird verwendet, um die Angleichung der Implementationsmodelle empirisch nachzuweisen. Mit der zunehmenden Vereinheitlichung der Agenturmodelle und durch andere Einseitigkeiten der eingeschlagenen Reformstrategie wird die Verbreitung paradoxer Reformeffekte begünstigt. Die Reform der Bundesagentur für Arbeit ist mit organisationsinternen Steuerungsparadoxien, Paradoxien der operativen Arbeitsvermittlung und Legitimationsparadoxien konfrontiert. Bei dieser Reform handelt es sich nicht um eine vermeintlich politisch neutrale Verwaltungsmodernisierung, vielmehr vollzieht sich ein institutioneller Governancewandel, mit dem die normativen Grundlagen und die Praxis der öffentlichen Arbeitsvermittlung bedeutsam verändert werden.

SCOUVART, Marie, ADAMS, Ryan T., CALDAS, Marcellus, DALE, Virginia, MERTENS, Benoît, NÉDÉLEC, Vincent et.al. (2007), "Causes of Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis", Journal of Land Use Science, 2, 4, 257-282.
Abstract: We used a configurational comparative approach, the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA), to study multiple causal interactions characterizing deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon. Our data set is based on seven local case studies at three time periods. Results reveal a limited number of pathways describing the articulation of causes of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon under different contexts. Roads are often combined with biophysical conditions and the occurrence of extractive activities in the explanation of deforestation. This study reached conclusions via a reproducible and formal procedure that was applied at a regional scale while accounting for the geographic diversity of land-use trajectories.

SEGURA-UBIERGO, Alex (2007), The Political Economy of the Welfare State in Latin America. Globalization, Democracy, and Development , Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
Abstract: This book is one of the first attempts to analyze how developing countries through the early twenty-first century have established systems of social protection (i.e. pension and poverty programs, and public health and education systems) and how these systems have been affected by the recent processes of globalization (i.e. greater exposure to international trade and capital markets) and democratization. The book focuses on Latin American - a pioneer in social policies in the developing world - to identify factors associated with the evolution of welfare state policies during the pre-globalization period (1920-1979), and studies how globalization and democratization in the last 25 years have affected governments' fiscal commitment to social spending.

SEROR, A. C. (2002), "Internet Infrastructures and Health Care Systems: a Qualitative Comparative Analysis on Networks and Markets in the British National Health Service and Kaiser Permanente", Journal of Medical Internet Research, 4, 3,
Abstract: Background: The Internet and emergent telecommunications infrastructures are transforming the future of health care management. The costs of health care delivery systems, products, and services continue to rise everywhere, but performance of health care delivery is associated with institutional and ideological considerations as well as availability of financial and technological resources. Objective: To identify the effects of ideological differences on health care market infrastructures including the Internet and telecommunications technologies by a comparative case analysis of two large health care organizations: the British National Health Service and the California-based Kaiser Permanente health maintenance organization. Methods: A qualitative comparative analysis focusing on the British National Health Service and the Kaiser Permanente health maintenance organization to show how system infrastructures vary according to market dynamics dominated by health care institutions ("push") or by consumer demand ("pull"). System control mechanisms may be technologically embedded, institutional, or behavioral. Results: The analysis suggests that telecommunications technologies and the Internet may contribute significantly to health care system performance in a context of ideological diversity. Conclusions: The study offers evidence to validate alternative models of health care governance: the national constitution model, and the enterprise business contract model. This evidence also suggests important questions for health care policy makers as well as researchers in telecommunications, organizational theory, and health care management.

SHANAHAN, M. J., VAISEY, S., ERICKSON, L. D., and SMOLEN, A. (Nov 2008), "Environmental Contingencies and Genetic Propensities: Social Capital, Educational Continuation, and Dopamine Receptor Gene Drd2", American Journal of Sociology, 114, S260-S286.
Abstract: Studies of gene-environment interplay typically focus on one environmental factor at a time, resulting in a constrained view of social context. The concept of environmental contingency is introduced as a corrective. Drawing on the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health and qualitative comparative analysis, the authors focus on an example involving social capital, a gene associated with a dopamine receptor (DRD2), and educational continuation beyond secondary school. For boys, (1) DRD2 risk is associated with a decreased likelihood of school continuation; (2) one configuration of social capital-high parental socioeconomic status, high parental involvement in school, and a high-quality school-compensates for this negative relationship, consistent with environmental contingency; but (3) boys with DRD2 risk are less commonly observed in settings that are rich in social capital.

SICAKKAN, Hakan Gürcan (1999), The Political-Historical Roots of West European Models of Citizen and Alien: an Application of Qualitative Comparative Analysis on Macro Historical Data , Bergen, IMER-Norway/Bergen Publications.
Abstract: A clarification of the relationship between West European political history and present models of citizen and alien is crucial to understanding better today's mechanisms and processes of new formations of social, economic, and political boundaries. The major hypothesis in this paper is that historical processes of state formation and nation building played a significant role in the emergence of contemporary legal models of citizen and alien. The article aims at documenting that states generated diverse value systems and corresponding legal discourses framing conceptions of phenomena 'citizen' and 'alien' while they opted for creating the 'right' loyalties and identifications in order to secure continuity of their legitimacy. Stein Rokkan's typology of state formation and nation building in Europe is employed for delineating the variation in European political history across countries. Citizenship, immigration, and aliens' laws of eighteen West European countries are used as data sources for representing the variation in European legal conceptions of citizen and alien. Charles Ragin's qualitative comparative method (QCA) is employed as the basic methodological tool for generating a synthetic, combinatorial solution to uncovering the systematic relationship between types of state formation and nation building, and contemporary citizenship laws.

---------- (4.14.2000/4.16.2000), "The Political-Historical Roots of West European Models of Citizen", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops, Workshop on "??", Copenhagen,

SICAKKAN, Hakan Gürcan and GÜNHAN, Atilla E. (1995), "Neural Networks As an Alternative Model in System Identification Paradigm: A Comparison of Statistics, Qualitative Comparative Analysis and Neural Networks As Tools of System Identification", Reports in Information Science (Bergen, Institutt for Informasjonsvitenskap, Universitetet i Bergen),

SKAANING, Svend-Erik (2005), "Respect for Civil Liberties in Post-Communist Countries: a Multi-Methodological Test of Structural Explanations", COMPASSS Working Paper , 34, 33p.
Abstract:This paper aims at uncovering factors explaining extent of membership in the group of liberal polities among the post-communist countries. The empirical examination makes use of three methodological tools – crisp-set method, fuzzy-set method, and OLS-regression – associated with two different approaches – diversity-oriented and variable-oriented – to test theoretically different structural conditions/variables supposed to facilitate the development of civil liberties. Six factors are included in the analysis: ethno-religious diversity, natural resources, early development, and three modernization indicators, i.e., GDP/cap., education and agricultural employment. The results diverge considerable between different approaches, but minimally between the QCA methods connected to the same approach. The OLS-regression shows that early development, ethnic diversity, and education are significantly correlated with civil liberty; education, though, not in the theoretically expected direction. On the other hand, the crisp-set analysis, using logical cases in the reduction procedure, points out early developed and not early developed as a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence and absence of a liberal regime, respectively. Finally, the fuzzy-set analysis, very similarly, emphasizes early development as a sufficient condition for liberal regimes in the post-communist context, if an inclusion of all simplifying assumptions is allowed, and three paths to a not liberal regime are uncovered, that is, the conjunction of the necessary condition not early developed with either not wealthy, not independent of natural resources, or not low agricultural employment rate. Thus, early development is undoubtedly identified as the most important factor in the explanation of the respect for civil liberty in post-communist countries. Regarding the QCA methods, they appear to be valuable supplements and at times even alternatives to standard statistical tests – the fuzzy-set method probably somewhat more than the crisp-set method – especially when the case number is rather low and when the relationship between the phenomenon to be explained and the explanatory factors is characterized by multiple conjunctural causation and necessity and/or sufficiency.

---------- (09.2006), Democracy Besides Elections: an Inquiry into (Dis)Respect for Civil Liberty in Latin American and Post-Communist Countries After the Third Wave, Aarhus, University of Aarhus (unpublished).

---------- (May 2007), "Explaining Post-Communist Respect for Civil Liberty: a Multi-Methods Test", Journal of Business Research, 60, 5, 493-500.
Abstract: This article explains the level of respect for civil liberty in post-communist countries. The methodological triangulation employs both QCA methods and OLS-regression to test the influence of structural conditions, the democratization literature emphasizes. The results show that the political legacy, that is, previous experience with civil liberty and a rule-abiding bureaucracy relates strongly to present civil liberty performance. The importance of the remaining factors (modernization indicators, dependence on natural resources, and ethno-religious diversity) is somewhat unclear because the results of the methods applied diverge. Expect a lack of congruence given their different assumptions and logics. As to the QCA methods in specific, they are apparently valuable supplements, and at times even plausible alternatives, to standard statistical tests.

SKAANING, Svend-Erik (09.06.2007/09.08.2007), "Assessing the Robustness of Crisp-Set and Fuzzy-Set QCA Results", paper presented at : 4th ECPR General Conference, Panel on "Comparative Research Design and Configurational Methods", Pisa,

SMILDE, David (2000), Works of the Flesh, Fruit of the Spirit: Religious Action Frames and Meaning Networks in Venezuelan Evangelicalism,University of Chicago (unpublished). (PhD Dissertation, abstract at : http://www.arches.uga.edu/~dsmilde/Dissertation%20abstract.htm; summary of chapters at : http://www.arches.uga.edu/~dsmilde/Abstract.htm)
Abstract: There are two recurring problems in the literature on Latin American Evangelicalism. First, conversion is explained using a form of functionalist explanation from results that both is not supported by contemporary cultural theory and cannot adequately distinguish those who convert from those who do not. Second, the political engagement of Latin American Evangelicals has been seen as paradoxical and contradictory with some scholars arguing that no consistent tendency can be discerned. This dissertation uses concepts from the sociology of culture and social movements theory to work through data from participant observation with Venezuelan Evangelicals, as well as eighty-four life history interviews with Evangelical and non-Evangelical men. The life history interviews with Evangelical men reveal that indeed they largely converted as a means to overcome pressing problems with substance abuse, violence and conjugal relationships. Evangelicalism functions as “religious action frame” that orients and motivates action that can overcome these problems. The data also reveal that men convert in pursuit of these positive consequences. Existing theories of religion rely on a realist theory of meaning that makes understanding such agency difficult. Since only objectively valid beliefs can be used to bring about desired consequences, such agency in religion has to be presented as knowledgeable cynicism, unintelligent fluke, or as a process that works behind the actors’ backs. I suggest a pragmatic theory of meaning in which beliefs that are not objectively valid in scientific terms can be held and used by actors who only care about evidence of their practical effect. I use Boolean algebra (Charles Ragin’s “qualitative comparative analysis”) to compare cases of commitment with cases of non-commitment. The analysis demonstrates that living with an Evangelical is a sufficient cause of commitment. However, the numerically most important causal combination is that of having serious life problems while not living with family of origin. These conclusions underline the importance of meaning networks. Having problems is important in most cases of commitment. But having the opportunity to commit depends on being independent from family of origin networks that reinforce traditional meanings, and or being in contact with Evangelical networks through which meaning innovation can flow. Conceiving of Evangelicalism as a frame containing an abstract symbolization of supernatural agency at its center, but which does not necessarily contain lower-level schemas consistently applying this symbolization to all areas of life, can help us understand the variability in Evangelical politics. While in areas of experience having to do with personal morality and the family the Evangelical frame contains well articulated, lower-level schemas that apply the abstract symbolization of supernatural agency to concrete situations in consistent ways, in areas given less importance such as politics, there are no well-articulated lower level schemas and individual variation is the norm. However, when Evangelical morality or interests are either openly embraced or openly threatened by a political option, Evangelical leaders can actively mobilize their followers by presenting well-articulated lower-level schemas containing the “correct” application of the abstract symbolization of supernatural agency. In these cases Evangelicalism can have an independent causal impact on political processes.

---------- (2001), "Who Commits? A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Pentecostal Conversion in Caracas", paper presented at : Lecture at University of Notre Dame History Department, Hesburgh Center for International Studies, Notre Dame,

SMILDE, David (Nov 2005), "A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of Conversion to Venezuelan Evangelicalism: How Networks Matter", American Journal of Sociology, 111, 3, 757-796.
Abstract: While the influence of networks in conversion is among the most established findings in the sociology of religion, relatively little is known about how and why they have their influence. In this study the author finds the social conformity theorization most often used in network analysis important but incomplete. Network ties are frequently influential despite little or no direct contact between ego and alter and little or no motivation to conform. Similarly, "structural availability" works not only by freeing an actor from conformity-inducing constraints but also by indicating a relative absence of social and cultural support. This absence motivates individuals for religious innovation. Finally, while network location strongly determines who converts, the individual experience of life problems remains a causal factor, and, in a small but irreducible number of cases, actors clearly exercise agency over their network locations.

SMOLLENAARS, Ellie (1999), Plusminus vijfenzestig. De sociale diversiteit van pensionleeftijden en 'ouderdom', Rotterdam, Lemma.

________, "Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)." (2000):2000.

Fragments from E. Smollenaar's book (2001 : 90-98).

SONNETT, John (2004), "Musical Boundaries: Intersections of Form and Content", Poetics: Journal of Empirical Research on Culture, the Media and the Arts, 32, 3-4, 247-264.
Abstract:Musical boundaries mark distinctions between what is valued and what is shunned among cultural objects. One prominent line of research on musical boundaries investigates variations of inclusiveness and exclusiveness ? identifying cultural omnivores and univores ? but has not fully considered the role of ambivalence toward genres that are neither liked nor disliked categorically. Another line of research deepens our understanding of the rhetorics, discourses, and cultural schemas organizing boundary work, but it has yet to map the combinatorial logic through which specific taste evaluations are made. In this study, I bridge research on boundary forms and organizing principles through a comparative and relational approach, combining Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and Correspondence Analysis (CA) to analyze musical tastes in the U.S. Results confirm the general associations of highbrows and omnivores, lowbrows and univores, but they also show a diversity of musical boundary configurations: the largest group of omnivores do not exclude lowbrow musics; a significant subset of univores are highbrows; and those with indecisive or ambivalent boundaries favor popular music. I conclude by noting that the musical taste structure is shaped more like a parabola than a pyramid and by proposing future directions for integrating qualitative and quantitative cultural sociology.

SPENCER, J. H. (Win 2008), "Household Strategies for Securing Clean Water the Demand for Piped Water in Vietnam's Peri-Urban Settlements", Journal of Planning Education and Research, 28, 2, 213-224.
Abstract: To date, there have been relatively few studies of small-scale providers of water in developing countries, though they are seen to be important players in peri-urban water supply systems. This paper uses the case of small-scale providers in Can Tho, Vietnam, to examine competition in local water markets, and how piped water compares with a range of lower-quality traditional sources. Although previous studies have usefully employed contingent valuation to estimate the demand for low quality, the evidence provided here estimates demand based on actual household choices regarding water of differing qualities and prices. Using an original household survey, the paper assesses the comparative advantages regarding costs, uses, and perceived advantages/challenges of each source. Findings suggest that household demand for piped water exists, but not on a sufficient scale to obviate more traditional sources, even though it is surprisingly affordable when compared to what residents pay for natural sources. Findings also suggest that the main perceived advantage of the piped system is not for its hygienic quality, but for aesthetic characteristics such as taste, smell, and color. Scholars might continue to pursue research in situations where households are not limited in their ability to choose water sources of varying qualities.

SPRINZ, Detlef F and KAAN, Christopher (11.9.2007/11.10.2007), "Designing Effective International Environmental Agreements: Multimethod Results From a Medium-N Database", paper presented at : Second Conference of the International Political Economy Society (IPES), Stanfor University, Palo Alto,
Abstract: The design of international regimes remains an underexplored field of inquiry despite its potential great benefit to scholars and political decision-makers alike. Research on design features has hitherto relied nearly exclusively on small-N comparative case studies. As a result, the construct and external validity of their findings is limited. In our paper, we use the International Regimes Database (IRD) (Breitmeier, Young, and Zürn 2006) to probe which design features account for highly effective international environmental regimes – and which are more persistently associated with ineffective regimes. As the field of systematic inquiry into the design of effective international environmental agreements presently lacks strong guidance, we hedge our risks by using multimethod research techniques. Building on the literature, we probe our dataset by using exploratory techniques to analyze four independent factors: enforcement, compliance-monitoring, legalization, and knowledge. Then we use cross-sectional statistical procedures, and fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fs/QCA) to examine the systematic relationship between these factors and the regime’s effectiveness. We tentatively explore why some of the findings may be induced by the particular choice of methods.

STATZ, Jochen (2000), Entwicklungspotenziale der Nutzung von Nicht-Holz-Waldprodukten. Perspektiven für ein neues Handlungsfeld der forstlichen Entwicklungszusammenarbeit in Paraguay und Bolivien [Potenciales de desarrollo en la utilización de productos no maderables del bosque. Perspectivas para un nuevo campo de acción de la Cooperación al Desarrollo Forestal en Paraguay y Bolivia] [Non-timber forest products and development co-operation : perceptions and strategies of decision makers], TÖB FTWF-22d, Eschborn, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ).
Abstract:(pp. 59 ff. : QCA) A PhD-study published recently at the University of Freiburg/Germany looks into potential benefits of NTFP-based forest use. In two South American countries it analyses how decision-makers involved in national development policy and international development co-operation perceive this potential. (...) For further analysis of the verbal data, a Qualitative Comparative Analysis was carried out, an analytical tool developed for comparative social science research by Ragin. As a result key features of strategies to promote NTFP trade were determined and then combined with each other. The interviewed experts saw a number of combinations as promising for the promotion of NTFPs, each being a very specific combination of the strategic elements listed above. Amongst them, economic success in the marketing of NTFPs appears to be crucial, yet only if accompanied by a political and economic setting committed to "sustainable development". The analysis of the verbal data reveals that none of the five approaches is seen as sufficient or necessary in itself for a successful promotion of NTFPs. All of them can lead to success if combined with certain other characteristics, yet can lead to undesirable results if combined with others. To cite an example, introducing NTFPs to international markets is not seen as beneficial per se. It is rather the specific combination with other approaches (in some cases even their absence) that is expected to result in societal development. [also available in Spanish at : http://www.gtz.de/toeb/pdf/TOEB_Potenciales_de_desarrollo_en_la_utilizacion_de_productos_no_maderables_del_bosque.pdf].

STEVENSON, William B. and GREENBERG, Danna (2000), "Agency and Social Networks: Strategies of Action in a Social Structure of Position, Opposition, and Opportunity", Administrative Science Quarterly, 45, 651-678.

STOKKE, Olav Schram (2003), "Boolean Analysis, Mechanisms, and the Study of Regime Effectiveness", COMPASSS Working Paper, 5, 35p.

STOKKE, Olav Schram (2004), "Boolean Analysis, Mechanisms, and the Study of Regime Effectiveness", in UNDERDAL, Arild and YOUNG, Oran R. (eds), Regime Consequences. Methodological Challenges and Research Strategies, Dordrecht, Kluwer Academic Publishers,

STOKKE, Olav Schram (May 2007), "Qualitative Comparative Analysis, Shaming, and International Regime Effectiveness", Journal of Business Research, 60, 5, 501-511.
Abstract: The article presents and applies a set-theoretic comparative technique, qualitative comparative analysis (QCA), to a string of case studies on shaming as a strategy for improving the effectiveness of international regimes for resource management. This technique is particularly attractive when the number of cases available is greater than what the researcher can reliably handle by narrative comparison, yet too low to support statistical procedures. QCA can capture causal conjunctions, even in small-to-intermediate-N situations, primarily because it permits the introduction of simplifying assumptions in a way that maintains a clear connection to the underlying cases - thus allowing substantive evaluation of their plausibility. A more recent fuzzy-set version lifts two limitations of the crisp-set version of QCA examined here (i.e., that variables must be dichotomous, and that the analysis makes no allowance for measurement error and non-modeled causality).

STOKKE, Olav Schram (2012 forthcoming), Disaggregating International Regime Effectiveness: Theory, Method, Governance, Cambridge, MIT Press.
Abstract: At the core of the regime effectiveness concept is the causal claim that levels of problem solving would be significantly lower in a counterfactual situation without the regime. The disaggregate approach developed in this book decomposes the problem addressed, the counterfactual analysis, as well as the empirical evidence in ways that make effectiveness assessments more tractable, transparent, and comparable across regimes. Its application to the case of Barents Sea fisheries uses Charles Ragin’s fuzzy-set QCA technique and indicates that two causal conditions that loom large in the literature on regime effectiveness malignancy and collaboration are highly important in shaping the contributions an international regime can make, but that their effects depend crucially on other conditions. Success on the cognitional aspect of resource management (forecast accuracy) is only reliable if scientists incorporate ecosystem information when developing their stock forecasts, which the regime helps them in achieving, and even then only if ecosystem disturbances are modest. Similarly, regulatory success (adoption of measures reflecting the best available knowledge) is reliable only when malignancy is low, and only if the partly regime-driven state of knowledge is strong or if collaborative regulation is reinforced by urgency. Behavioral failure (substantial quota overfishing) is a reliable outcome if malignancy is high and is not counteracted by either high obligation or intensive shaming by the other party, while reliable behavioral success requires low malignancy, high determinacy and bindingness of regime rules, and strong systems for fisher-report verification. The final step in the disaggregate approach to regime effectiveness is to aggregate these partial effectiveness assessments by relating them to developments in the state of the resource base.

STRANDBERG, K. (Mar 2008), "Online Electoral Competition in Different Settings - a Comparative Meta-Analysis of the Research on Party Websites and Online Electoral Competition", Party Politics, 14, 2, 223-244.
Abstract: This article takes a close look at two important theories concerning the effects that online party campaigning has on party competition. The equalization and normalization theories are tested for systematic logical dependence on conditions present in existing studies within the research field. The conditions are country-specific contextual settings and study-specific methodology. The method of qualitative comparative analysis is used, such that variable based reasoning can be applied in the low n case study. The main result of the analysis is that findings of normalization are mostly dependent on offline conditions - electoral settings in particular - being favourable to major parties. Concerning findings of equalization, an online media environment favourable to minor parties, compared to the offline environment proved important. Through a meta-analytical approach, the article brings important information to light on how scholarly interpretations of the two theories have been constructed.

STRYKER, Robin, ELIASON, Scott, and TRANBY, Eric (9.3.2004/9.7.2004), "The Welfare State, Family Policies and Women's Labor Market Participation: a Fuzzy-Set Analysis", paper presented at : 2004 Annual Meeting of Research Committee 19, Paris,

STRYKER, Robin and ELIASON, Scott R. (2002), "The Welfare State, Gendered Labor Markets, and Political Orientations in France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Denmark and Britain 1977-1994", paper presented at : Gender Studies Program, Robert Schuman Centre, European University Institute,
Abstract: Abstract: This paper theoretically specifies and empirically examines a causal logic linking production of welfare state institutions encouraging demand for and supply of female labor to support for and gender gaps in left political orientations. We hypothesize that public sector expansion increases female labor force participation by increasing demand for female-specific labor. Public provision of child care and maternity leave are expected to increase female labor force participation by increasing female labor supply. Gender gaps in political orientations are expected to vary by class and labor force locations. Using fuzzy-set methods for the controlled comparison of cases, our empirical results show that high cumulative left governance is causally necessary to create an environment encouraging demand for and supply of female labor. In turn, encouragement on both supply and demand sides is causally sufficient to produce female support for the left in various ways and gender gaps in the support of the center-left. As well, high female labor force participation is causally necessary to produce a female left support gap across labor force locations, with women in the labor force more likely to support the left than women at home. Results from the fuzzy set analysis using the data from Denmark, France, Germany, Belgium, and Italy show that high cumulative left governance is causally necessary and sufficient for high public day care. In turn, high public daycare is causally necessary and sufficient for high female labor force participation. We address substantive implications of the different results including and excluding Britain from our analysis.

SVEVO-CIANCI, Kimberly A., HART, Stuart N., and RUBINSON, Claude (2010), "Protecting Children From Violence and Maltreatment: A Qualitative Comparative Analysis Assessing the Implementation of U.N. CRC Article 19", Child Abuse & Neglect: The International Journal, 34, 1, 45-56.
Abstract:Objectives: (1) To identify which United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) recommended child protection (CP) measures, such as policy, reporting systems, and services for child abuse and neglect (CAN) victims, individually or in combination, were most important in establishing a basic level of child protection in 42 countries; and (2) to assess whether these measures were necessary or sufficient to achieve basic child protection in developing and industrialized countries. Method: Child protection and/or rights expert respondents from 42 countries completed a questionnaire on CRC Article 19 (CRC19) required CP measures implementation and rated their country's effectiveness in implementation, the current level of effectiveness of child protection, and the relevance of improvements in child protection since the CRC was adopted in 1989. Information from the Committee on the Rights of the Child Concluding Observations, as well as UNICEF and WHO indicators on child health and protection issues were used to check and supplement responses. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was used to identify child protection measure implementation effectiveness. Results: Results indicate that child protection judged as comparatively more successful among study countries is a result of having the following measures in place from two types of social programs: a CP infrastructure (legislation plus services) and at least one information-based intervention support program. Conclusions: Fourteen (33%) countries were determined to have established at least a basic CP system toward protection of children from violence and maltreatment. These countries reported having the three required elements described above. The study reinforces the need for governments to take a systems approach to child protection, including policy/legislation, information-based programs and social services, as well as professional training and public awareness raising. The top-ranked countries included: Australia, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Estonia, Germany, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Malaysia, Republic of Korea, the Russian Federation, and the United Kingdom. Practice implications: Governments need to establish CP systems with multiple, well-integrated, effective CP measures as elaborated above, working with trained professionals and also raising public awareness to ensure successful protection for all children in every country. Partial measures are not effective. Further, in addition to establishing, implementing, and evaluating the effectiveness of professional interventions, the actual outcomes for children, not studied or reported on here, need to be the priority focus for child protection going forward. (Contains 2 tables and 1 figure.).

TAROHMARU, Hiroshi (2001), "Kenri Nouryoku Ron: Rekishi Gnsyou heno Ouyou [Reconstruction of Ehrlich's Die Rechtsfähigkeit: Application [of QCA] to Historical Phenomena]", in KANOMATA, Nobuo, NOMIYA, Daishiro, and HASEGAWA, Keiji (eds), Shituteki Hikaku Bunseki [Qualitative Comparative Analysis], Kyoto, Mineruva Syobo, pp. 113-129.

THELEN, Kathleen (2003), "How Institutions Evolve: Insights From Comparative Historical Analysis", in MAHONEY, James and RUESCHEMEYER, Dietrich (eds), Comparative Historical Research, Cambridge, Cambridge Univ Press, pp. 208-240.

TRONCONI, Filippo (2002), (PhD Thesis Summary) Ethnoregionalist Parties in the EU Countries: a Comparative Analysis (unpublished manuscript).

TYRKKÖ, Arja (1999), I skärningspunkten mellan arbetsliv och föräldraskap. En studie om livsformer i 1990-talets Sverige [The intersaction between working life and parenthood. A study of life-modes in Sweden in the 1990s], Arbete och Halsä Vetenskaplig Skriftserie, Uppsala Universitet, Arbetslivsinstitutet. (online at : http://www.niwl.se/ah/1999-17.pdf; abstract at : http://www.soc.uu.se/publications/doktabst/1999-8_a.html)
Abstract: The central problem area of this dissertation concerns the connection between working life and parenthood. The main purpose is to develop an analytical strategy which validity is determined by the extent to which it can consider and cover the complexity of the con-ditions and practices of everyday life for working parents. Starting in an understanding of the concept life-mode as a sensitizing concept, an analytical model is developed and a Boolean approach is used to study the complex interrelation between working life and parenthood. In the dissertation the relationship between working life and parenthood is studied focusing on the work place. Parenthood, organization and gender are three key concepts which direct the analysis of the organizational forms everyday life take on.

USSERY, Amber A. (04.03.2008/04.06.2008), "Gender and the Design of Transitional Justice in Post-Conflict Societies", paper presented at : Paper Presented at the Midwest Political Science Association 66th Annual National Conference,
Abstract: This paper utilizes fuzzy-set analysis to evaluate how gender biases, including gendered understandings of war and political violence, have impacted the design and implementation of transitional justice processes in nations emerging from civil war.

VALERIANO, Brandon and MARIN, Victor (2010), "Pathways to Interstate Wars. A Qualitative Comparative Analysis of the Steps-to-War Theory", Josef Korbel Journal of Advanced International Studies, 2, 1-27.
Abstract: The steps-to-war theory (Vasquez 1993) suggests that war is brought on by a series of steps that increase hostility and then make the issues under contention more intractable. Power politics strategies, including coercion in the face of territorial disputes, rivalry, hardliners in power, alliances, and arms races, are all important steps to war. This paper utilizes the steps-to-war theory using qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). With this method, we can observe differing pathways to war, rather than the correlations associated with war. This research also represents the first attempt to classify domestic leaders according to type as suggested by existing theory. Territorial issues, rivalry, hardliners in power, and alliances are all sufficient conditions for the existence of an interstate war.

VALTONEN, K., PADMORE, J. C., SOGREN, M., and ROCK, L. (Jan 2009), "Lived Experiences of Vulnerability in the Childhood of Persons Recovering From Substance Abuse", Journal of Social Work, 9, 1, 39-60.
Abstract: The aim of the study was to deepen understanding of the context of vulnerability which is associated with drug-taking behaviour and addiction. The researchers sought to identify recurring psychosocial and environmental factors in the childhood and early adulthood backgrounds of the participants. They further scrutinized the data for pairs or co-occurrences of such risk factors across the target groups. Qualitative methodology was employed, based on in-depth interviews. The participants were accessed in drug rehabilitation centres in Trinidad and in Barbados, bringing a cross-national dimension to the work. The Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method was used to analyse the data. Findings: It is significant that nearly half of the Trinidad group and two-thirds of the Barbados group reported experience of rejection or abandonment in childhood. A profile of stressful or traumatic experiences was compiled for each participant, from which it was possible to identify co-ocurring pairs of stressors, which suggest inter-relationships between the phenomena. Marked co-occurrence was found between domestic violence and alcoholism; domestic violence in the participants' family background and non-attainment of. Secondary School Certification; non-attainment of Secondary School Certification and rejection; poverty and rejection; domestic violence and rejection. Applications: Case management techniques can benefit from research-generated insights on interrelationships between critical risk-connected phenomena, especially in developing concerted approaches to problems of substance abuse using preventive techniques.

VAN DER MAAT, Eelco (Mar 2011), "Sleeping Hegemons: Third-Party Intervention Following Territorial Integrity Transgressions", Journal of Peace Research, 48, 2, 201-215.
Abstract: It is not clear why some territorial transgressions lead to intervention by the international community and others do not. As most territorial transgressions lead to a reaction from the international community but a few, however, do not, this study examines the main determinants for non-intervention by capable members of the international community, following violation of the territorial integrity norm by a deviant state. This article focuses on which characteristics of the norm-transgressing state, the conflict, and the state capable of enforcing the norm affect the occurrence of non-intervention. This comparative study examines six major alleged transgressions of the territorial integrity norm - the occupation of Tibet, the Suez crisis, the 1967 six-day war, the Indonesian occupation of East Timor, the Moroccan occupation of the Western Sahara, and the 1989 Gulf crisis - using a multi-methodological approach based on qualitative methods, most notably fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis. Analysis reveals that the absence of high security costs to the hegemon in combination with (a) strategically important security relations between the transgressor and the hegemon or (b) absence of military and economic vulnerability are generally necessary and sufficient for non-intervention.

VANDERBORGHT, Yannick (2004), La faisabilité politique d'un revenu inconditionnel: Analyse comparative des débats politiques sur l'allocation universelle, l'impôt négatif et le revenu de participation dans cinq pays de l'OCDE (1970-2003), Louvain-la-Neuve, Université Catholique de Louvain.

VANDERBORGHT, Yannick and YAMASAKI, Sakura (2004), "Des cas logiques… contradictoires? Un piège de l’AQQC déjoué à travers l’étude de la faisabilité politique de l’Allocation Universelle", Revue Internationale de Politique Comparée, 11, 1, 51-66.

---------- (2004), "The Problem of Contradictory Simplifying Assumptions in Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Marburg, Germany,

VARONE, Frédéric, RIHOUX, Benoît, and MARX, Axel (2006), "A New Method for Policy Evaluation? Longstanding Challenges and the Possibilities of Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA)", in RIHOUX, Benoît and GRIMM, Heike (eds), Innovative Comparative Methods for Policy Analysis, New York, Springer, pp. 213-236.

VARONE, Frédéric, ROTHMAYR, Christine, and MONTPETIT, Eric (2006), "Regulating Biomedicine in Europe and North America. A Qualitative-Comparative Analysis", European Journal of Political Research, 45, 2, 317-343.
Abstract: This article explains the variation in policy design processes and the resulting policy-outputs of ‘biopolicies’ implemented within the domain of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) for eleven European and North-American countries. By applying the method of Qualitative Comparative Analysis, the comparison describes and defines the ‘multiple conjunctural causation’ to explain the divergences or similarities of ART policies in Europe and North America.The policy preferences of the actors involved in the relevant ART policy network and the institutional rules characterizing the respective polity need to be considered together in order to explain why different countries adopted similar or different ART policies. In particular, the analysis stresses the influence of party politics, the self-regulation of ART by the physicians, the mobilization of interest groups, the number of institutional arenas involved in the designing process and the nature of decision-making rules (power-sharing versus majority) on the designing processes and the resulting policies. Thus, different policy designs are linked to different designing processes, encompassing four ideal-typical decision-making modes: ‘designing by non-decisions’, ‘designing by elites’, ‘designing by accommodation’ and ‘designing by mobilization and consultation’. These results shed new light on the challenges for developing a policy design theory that could provide a robust framework for describing and explaining policy formulation.

VATTER, Adrian and FREITAG Markus (2001 ??), Politische Institutionen und kantonale Staatstätigkeit: ein Vergleich der Schweizer Gliedstaaten [research programme under way] (unpublished manuscript). ((research programme abstract at http://www.ipw.unibe.ch/parteienforschung/IC_Eingang.htm ))
Abstract: The basic problem of how political institutions impact upon state outputs and social outcomes has become highly relevant in comparative politics. The project examines the institutional causes of policy-variations in 26 Swiss cantons between 1980 and 2000. Starting from the observation that each canton has its own very special set of institutions that determine much of the political life the project attempts to demonstrate, on both a theoretical and an empirical level, that there are systematic connections between specific cantonal institutions, e.g. direct democracy, the degree of power-sharing, the degree of decentralisation, and political, socio-economic, and legal outcomes of the Swiss cantons. The project deals with the following research questions: To what extent account the different patterns of political institutions for the impressive differences in economic, social and legal outcomes in Swiss cantons? Which political and institutional factors are responsible for the policy-variations with reference to macroeconomic performance, social policy or income inequality? How does direct democracy affect the extent of minority rights? Are federalism/local autonomy and direct democracy effective institutional veto points in Swiss cantons with reference to public policy? Are differences in socio-economic structures and processes attributable to the different degrees of power-sharing within governments? What is the effect of direct democracy on public policymaking, e.g. spending, taxation, controlling for other political institutions such as consensus democracy, federalism/decentralisation, election systems or strong governments? Starting from the insights of comparative literature on public policy the objectives of our study are as follows: (1) In taking the research advantage of Swiss federalism state, we want to present the first systematic, empirical examination of the impact of political institutions on policy outcomes among 26 Swiss cantons, testing given approaches dominating the cross-national study of public policy. (2) Towards a study of comparative statics we try to explain different policy outcomes in different cantons with reference to their respective institutional configurations. Furthermore, we want to extend this institutional analysis by examining the interaction of institutions and political outcomes both across cantons and over time (institutional dynamism). (3) While there is a significant amount on cross-national examinations discussing the importance of political institutions as a determinant on public policy hitherto little if any systematic work exists beyond the national level. From this point of view our research breaks new grounds in providing a comprehensive policy-analysis in a subnational comparative perspective. Comparing the Swiss cantons the implementation of these objectives is based on both, a quantitative and a more macro-qualitative method: Besides multivariate analysis including pooled cross sectional time series analysis for a sample of 26 Swiss cantons over twenty years, we introduce Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) to evaluate our political-institutional thesis. It is planned to present ongoing research at various conferences. In addition, we want to deliver our results to key actors of Swiss cantons as well as to different political and economic organizations.

VEENIS, Else (11.2000), 'Als het bedrijf er maar niet te veel last van heeft'. De invloed van het ouderschapsbeleid en de ouderschapscultuur van supermarkten en boekhandels op de combinatieproblemen van mannelijke en vrouwelijke werknemers met jonge kinderen ['As long as it isn't too much trouble for the firm'. The impact of family policy and family culture on employees with young children in supermarkets and book trade], Utrecht, Universiteit Utrecht (unpublished). (ISBN : 90-393-2589-8. Online at : http://www.library.uu.nl/digiarchief/dip/diss/1938675/full.pdf))

VERKUILEN, Jay (8.30.2001/9.2.2001), "Measuring Fuzzy Set Membership Functions: a Dual Scaling Approach", paper presented at : Annual Meeting of the APSA, San Francisco,
Abstract:Charles Ragin's (2000) recent book opened up a recent dialogue on fuzzy set methods in social science data analysis. Membership functions are measures of partial set membership and are normalized to be in the unit interval and have been used to characterize situations of non-probabilistic vagueness. One of the deficiencies of the fuzzy set literature has been a lack of a firm basis in measurement for membership functions, even though leading fuzzy set theorists have noted that any practical applications depend strongly on the quality of membership assessment. In this paper, I discuss the use of dual scaling, a method from nonlinear multivariate analysis that scales multiple categorical items for the assignment of fuzzy set membership functions. The paper also includes an example of the scaling applied to some data from Russett (1964) , that are very typical of the sort encountered in medium N cross-national research.

VEUGELERS, John and MAGNAN, André (2005), "Conditions of Far-Right Strength in Contemporary Western Europe: an Application of Kitschelt’s Theory", European Journal of Political Research, 44, 6, 837-860.
Abstract: Applying the demand-side claims of Kitschelt's theory, and the expectation that electoral systems affect voter choice, this article provides an explanation of cross-national variation in support for new radical right ( NRR) parties between 1982 and 1995. After discussing concepts and measures, two versions of qualitative comparative analysis ( Boolean analysis and fuzzy-set analysis) are applied to data for ten West European countries. The results suggest that, in combination with electoral systems that had larger district magnitudes, NRR strength resulted from a restructuring of the space of party competition due to post-industrialism and growth in the welfare state. Convergence between major parties of the left and right was not among the combination of conditions that led to NRR success. Apart from demonstrating that fuzzy-set analysis can yield a simpler explanation than Boolean analysis, this study reveals anomalous NRR outcomes for Austria, Belgium and France.

VEUGELERS, John W. P. (4.6.2001/4.11.2001), "Structural Conditions of Far-Right Emergence in Contemporary Western Europe : a Comparative Analysis of Kitschelt's Theory", paper presented at : ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops, Workshop on "??", Grenoble. (online at : http://www.essex.ac.uk/ecpr/jointsessions/grenoble/papers/ws14/veugelers.pdf)

VIEBROCK, Elke (9.9.2004/9.11.2004), "European Systems of Unemployment Insurance in Historical Comparison. The Potential of FS/QCA in Cross-Country Welfare State Research", paper presented at : ESPAnet 2004 Conference, Comparative Methodology Stream, Oxford,

Viebrock, Elke and Paul Norris, "A Fuzzy-Set Based Analysis of Changing Levels of Social Expenditure in OECD Countries 1980-1998 ." (2005): 125. 2005.

VIS, Barbara (2006), "States of Welfare or States of Workfare? A Fuzzy-Set Ideal Type Analysis of Major Welfare State Restructuring in Sixteen Advanced Capitalist Democracies, 1985-2002", COMPASSS Working Paper, 42, 40p.
Abstract: Did welfare states change radically from welfare towards workfare or was such a shift absent and was welfare state change regime specific instead? This paper assesses this question for sixteen advanced capitalist democracies for the period 1985-2002, using an innovative method, fuzzy-set ideal type analysis. This study shows that the mainstream welfare state literature’s prediction of no radical and regime specific change holds for most countries. The regulation literature’s prediction of radical change from welfare towards workfare is supported fully only in Ireland and moderately in Denmark. Furthermore, interesting other patterns are revealed in six countries.

---------- (2008), Biting the Bullet or Steering Clear? Politics of (Not-) Unpopular Welfare State Reform in Advanced Capitalist Democracies,VU University of Amsterdam (unpublished).

---------- (2009), "Governments and Unpopular Social Policy Reform: Biting the Bullet or Steering Clear?", European Journal of Political Research, 48, 1, 31-57.
Abstract: Under which conditions and to what extent do governments pursue unpopular social policy reforms for which they might be punished in the next election? This article shows that there exists substantial cross-cabinet variation in the degree to which governments take unpopular measures and argues that current studies cannot adequately explain this variation. Using insights from prospect theory, a psychological theory of choice under risk, this study hypothesises that governments only engage in unpopular reform if they face a deteriorating socio-economic situation, a falling political position, or both. If not, they shy away from the risk of reform. A fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fs/QCA) of the social policy reform activities pursued by German, Dutch, Danish and British cabinets between 1979 and 2005 identifies a deteriorating socio-economic situation as necessary for unpopular reform. It is only sufficient for triggering reform, however, if the political position is also deteriorating and/or the cabinet is of rightist composition.This study’s findings further the scholarly debate on the politics of welfare state reform by offering a micro-foundation that helps one to understand what induces political actors aspiring to be re-elected to engage in electorally risky unpopular reform.

WAGEMANN, Claudius and SCHNEIDER, Carsten (2010), "Standards of Good Practice in Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) and Fuzzy-Sets", Comparative Sociology, 9, 3, 397-418.
Abstract:As a relatively new methodological tool, QCA is still a work in progress. Standards of good practice are needed in order to enhance the quality of its applications. We present a list from A to Z of twenty-six proposals regarding what a 'good' QCA-based research entails, both with regard to QCA as a research approach and as an analytical technique. Our suggestions are subdivided into three categories: criteria referring to the research stages before, during, and after the analytical moment of data analysis. This listing can be read as a guideline for authors, reviewers, and readers of QCA. Adapted from the source document.

WAGEMANN, Claudius and SCHNEIDER, Carsten Q. (2003), "Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (Fs/QCA). Ein Zwei-Stufen-Modul", in PICKEL, Susanne, PICKEL, Gert, LAUTH, Hans-Joachim, and JAHN, Detlef (eds), Vergleichende Politikwissenschaftliche Methoden. Neue Entwicklungen und Diskussionen, Wiesbaden, Westdeutscher Verlag, pp. 105-134.

WATANABE, Tsutomu (2002), Girei No Imi. Koningirei No Ronrikouzou. [The Meaning of the Rituals. The Structure of the Logic of Marrital Rituals.] (unpublished manuscript).

WATANABE, Tsutomu (2003), "Where Theory and Reality Meet: Using the Full Potential of QCA by Exploiting the Intersection Function of the QCA Software. International Comparison Analysis About the Occurrence of Social Movement", COMPASSS Working Paper, 13, 14p.

WATANABE, Tsutomu (9.16.2003/9.17.2003), "Where Theory and Reality Meet: Using the Full Potential of QCA by Exploiting the Intersection Function of the QCA Software. International Comparison Analysis About the Occurence of Social Movement.", paper presented at : COMPASSS Launching Conference, Louvain-la-Neuve and Leuven, Belgium,

WATANABE, Tsutomu (2004), "An Analysis of Career Pattern: Possibility of Optimal Matching Analysis", Sociological Theory and Methods, 19, 2, 213-234.
Abstract:In this paper, I would like to analyze job career data and examine the merit and demerit of the Optimal Matching Analysis that is one of the sequence analyses in which a lot of sociologists have been interested. There are few papers about the career pattern except Hara (1979) and Seiyama (1988) in Japan. I examine the job career dataset of SSM (Social Stratification and Mobility) survey in 1995 using the Optimal Matching Analysis. First, I analyze the ten years and the thirty years career lines dataset using the Optimal Matching Analysis and calculate the paired distances between career lines. I then classified these career lines by the clustering techniques. I find that the career lines cluster into six general types about each of ten years and thirty years dataset. Moreover, I examine the relation between the first job, the job after 30 years, the education, and the career pattern using Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA). On the basis of these analyses, I can conclude that the Optimal Matching Analysis is a new method that can make the patterning of the job career.

WEINBERG, Adam S. (1997), "Local Organizing for Environmental Conflict. Explaining Differences Between Cases of Participation and Nonparticipation", Organization and Environment, 19, 2, 194-216.
Abstract: Grassroots groups continue to compose a large part of the environmental movement in the United States. In this article, I examine 41 attempts by grassroots groups to work with the Sierra Club to participate in local environmental conflicts. I argue that the difference between those groups who participated in a local conflict and those groups who were unable to participate in a conflict can be explained by the ability of a group to mobilize resources, gain access to information, create ties to other participants, control the framing of a conflict, and sustain these four factors across the duration of the conflict. Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis, I argue that having resources and information is useful for participation but not sufficient to guarantee participation. Ultimately, participation occurs when local groups have ties with other participants in the conflict and/or the ability to control the framing of the conflict.

WEINBERG, Adam S. and GOULD, Kenneth A. (1993), "Public Participation in Environmental Regulatory Conflicts: Treading Through the Possibilities and Pitfalls", Law & Policy, 15, 2, 139-167.

WERNER, T. (Jan 2009), "Congressmen of the Silent South: the Persistence of Southern Racial Liberals, 1949-1964", Journal of Politics, 71, 1, 70-81.
Abstract:Using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis, this paper investigates the characteristics of white Southern constituencies that reelected racial liberals to the U.S. House in the period between the 1948 Democratic Convention and the passage of the Voting Rights Act. In doing so, it tests theories of Southern politics and the electoral connection. Further, it also addresses several methodological issues regarding inferences made from comparative-historical research. Ultimately, it reveals that racial liberals from the Peripheral South and the cities of the Deep South were able to establish bonds between themselves and their constituents that were sufficient to win reelection.

WICKHAM-CROWLEY, Timothy P. (1991), "A Qualitative Comparative Approach to Latin American Revolutions", in RAGIN, Charles C. (ed.), Issues and Alternatives in Comparative Social Research, Leiden, E.J. Brill, pp. 82-109.

WICKHAM-CROWLEY, Timothy P. (1992), Guerillas and Revolution in Latin America: a Comparative Study of Insurgents and Regimes Since 1956, Princeton, Princeton University Press.

WILLIAMS, Linda Meyer and FARRELL, Ronald A. (1990), "Legal Response to Child Sexual Abuse in Daycares", Criminal Justice and Behavior, 17, 3, 284-302.

WINAND, Mathieu (01.29.2008), "Approche QCA des conditions de la performance organisationnelle des fédérations sportives de la Communauté française de Belgique", paper presented at : Séminaire Qualitative Comparative Analysis , Dijon,

---------- (2009), Déterminants de la performance organisationnelle des fédérations sportives: une analyse comparée des ligues sportives de la Communauté française de Belgique, Louvain-la-Neuve, UCL (unpublished).

WINAND, Mathieu, RIHOUX, Benoît, QUALIZZA, David, and ZINTZ, Thierry (2011, forthcoming), "Combinations of Key Determinants of Performance in Sport Governing Bodies", Sport, Business and Management: An International Journal,
Abstract:Purpose : This study focuses on possible combinations of the key determinants of high performance in sport governing bodies (SGBs) which go well beyond the net effects of independent variables.
Design/methodology/approach : The research focused on 18 sport governing bodies from the French speaking Community of Belgium (CSGBs). Their strategic goals are emphasized and their potential determinants of performance are measured and assessed. Due to the small N-sample and the causal complexity inherent in this research, a crisp-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (csQCA) was performed.
Findings : Three generic combinations of the key determinants linked with high performance were highlighted. The first was high performing CSGBs that provide innovative activities for their membership and are proactive in elite sport services. The second was other high performing CSGBs of large size that involve paid staff in decision making processes and also develop innovative activities. The third was small sized governing bodies which, although they do not have extensive resources, could perform highly when they relied on volunteer leaders and delegates activities they were not able to deliver.
Research limitations/implications: Due to country and sport specificities, these results may not be generalized to all SGBs. Nevertheless, it is possible to argue that when trying to understand the performance of such complex nonprofit sport organizations, researchers and practitioners need to take into account combinations of factors, rather than independent performance variables.
Originality/value Using an innovative mixed method design dealing with causal complexity – Qualitative Comparative Analysis –, this study highlights combinations of factors observed in high performing SGBs.

WINAND, Mathieu and ZINTZ, Thierry (11.10.2008), "Exploratory Analysis of the Organizational Performance of Sports Governing Bodies Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis. The Case of the Sports Leagues From the French Speaking Community of Belgium", paper presented at : PhD Conference in Business Economics and Management, The Netherlands,

WINAND, Mathieu, ZINTZ, Thierry, RIHOUX, Benoît, and QUALIZZA, David (09.16.2009/09.19.2009), "Pathways to High Performance Sport Governing Bodies", paper presented at : European Association of Sport Management Conference, The Netherlands,

WINTERS, Ine (2001), Beleidssteun voor minister. Een comparatief onderzoek in veertien Europese lidstaten, Antwerpen, Universitaire Instelling Antwerpen (unpublished). (Dissertation, unpublished (online at : http://www.uia.ac.be/u/s990034/kabinetten/))
Abstract: Deze thesis is een exploratief onderzoek. De bedoeling was om mogelijke redenen aan te geven waarom ministeriële kabinetten ontstaan zijn in bepaalde landen. Uiteindelijk wilden we een aantal denkpistes uiteenzetten over welke factoren er aan de basis kunnen liggen van de keuze voor de ene of de andere methode van beleidsondersteuning. Om dit concreet in te vullen hebben we 14 landen van de Europese Unie onder de loep genomen (zonder Luxemburg). De methode die Ragin hanteert gaf ons de inspiratie voor de analyse. Hij stelt dat het, uiteindelijk doel van comparatief onderzoek het verklaren van diversiteit is. Dit moet op een eenvoudige wijze gebeuren door het zoeken naar patronen van gelijkenissen en verschillen bij een beperkt aantal gevallen. Voor elk van die landen hebben we een groot aantal politieke variabelen, opgezocht. Deze zijn zo geformuleerd dat er enkel een ja/nee-antwoord mogelijk is. De data worden met andere woorden gedichotomiseerd. Zo kunnen gevallen op een vereenvoudigde manier worden voorgesteld en kan men gemakkelijker configuraties en subgroepen onderscheiden. De besproken variabelen gaan over het politiek-maatschappelijk en het, administratieve systeem van een land, aangezien de keuze voor het ene of andere model van beleidsondersteuning gedaan wordt op die basis. De data werden gegroepeerd in een samenvattende tabel. Vervolgens werden ze gesimplificeerd, door irrelevante verbanden te verwijderen, waardoor het gemakkelijker wordt, om clusters van samenhangende variabelen te onderscheiden. Concreet hebben wet dit laatste gedaan met behulp van het softwarepakket, QCA. Op die manier hebben we een aantal mogelijke verklaringen gevonden voor de aan- of afwezigheid van ministeriële kabinetten. We kunnen niet één, duidelijke reden aangeven waarom er in bepaalde landen ministeriële kabinetten ontstaan zijn, en in andere niet. Wel hebben we getracht aanwijzingen te geven, denkpistes, ideeën in welke richting de eventuele reden gezocht moet worden.

WINTERS, Ine (6.2001), Beleidssteun voor ministers. Een comparatief onderzoek in veertien Europese lidstaten. (Eindverhandeling voorgelegd met het oog op het behalen van de graad van licenciaat in de politieke en sociale wetenschappen (richting Internationale Politiek)), (unpublished), Universiteit Antwerpen (unpublished).

WOLFSON, Nathan (1998), Whence These Rumblings? Towards an Understanding of the Structural Pre-Conditions of Anti-Systemic Mobilization,University of Amsterdam ?? (unpublished). ([unpublished?] PhD Thesis ? Online at : http://www.deadlists.com/nathan/thesis/)

WOLLEBAEK, D. (Mar 2010), "Volatility and Growth in Populations of Rural Associations", Rural Sociology, 75, 1, 144-166.
Abstract: This article uses unique community-level data aggregated from censuses of associations to analyze growth and volatility in rural populations of grassroots associations. A qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) shows that the two main paths to growth were (1) centralization in polycephalous (multicentered) municipalities and (2) population growth in secular municipalities. High volatility occurs in (1) societies exposed to metropolitan sprawl and (2) traditional peripheral communities with high organizational density and little sociocultural change. Despite this volatility, associational life expanded in the sprawling areas that underwent extensive sociocultural change as well as in the peripheral areas where centralization took place. By contrast, more static peripheries experienced decline. The findings challenge romanticized images of stable, small-scale communities and nuance the negative view on metropolitan sprawl.

YAMASAKI, Sakura (8.20.2002), "Applications QCA en politique publique", paper presented at : Séminaire AURAP, UCL, Louvain-la-Neuve,

---------- (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Testing Hypotheses With QCA: Application to the Nuclear Phase-Out Policy in 9 OECD Countries", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract: Taking as a starting point Duyvendak’s development on the concept of “policy domain profile” (Kriesi et al. 1995), this paper first discusses the best way to operationalize this concept, picking on both NSM litterature and public policy litterature. In a second part, the proposed operationalization will be tested with QCA by empirical data: the nuclear phase out policy in several European countries and Japan. The methodological originality of this paper is the usage of the “intersection” function of QCA, a function especially designed for theory testing but very seldom used (for the only known exception, see Watanabe, 2001). Theories as well as empirical findings are expressed in a Boolean equation (with, of course, the same outcome) and they are “crossed” to see where theory and reality meet. More concretely, this function of QCA allows to point at situations that are observed empirically but which should not “theoretically” exist; or, on the other hand, situations that should exist theoretically but are not observed empirically, pointing at possible flaws in the theory.

---------- (2007), Policy Change in Nuclear Energy. A Comparative Analysis of West European Countries, Louvain-la-Neuve, Université catholique de Louvain (UCL) (unpublished).
Abstract: Yamasaki (2007) aims to identify the factors and their mechanisms leading to major nuclear energy policy changes, and in particular phase-outs or moratoriums. She performs a csQCA analysis of the instances of major nuclear energy policy changes of all 10 West European countries which have produced nuclear power at the commercial level. The study is based on detailed country case studies across the whole 1973-2007 period. Her csQCA results show that major policy changes can occur when anti-nuclear movements are un- or de-mobilised (contrary to common expectations), when the nuclear energy issue is highly institutionalized, and focusing events occur, either as confirmatory or root triggering factor. ---------- (2009), "A Boolean Analysis of Movement Impact on Nuclear Energy Policy", Mobilization, 14, 4, 485-504.
Abstract: The impacts of social movements on public policies have been studied extensively yet yield mixed results. Some results point to a strong impact of social movements, while others conclude that they do not possess any observable leverage on public policies. These mixed results may be linked to utilization of different methodological approaches. However, few studies have considered the possibility that movements may in fact prevent policy change. In this study, we argue that for high-profile policies such as nuclear energy, a low-key social mobilization is in some instances necessary for the occurrence of major policy changes. We further hypothesize that highly mobilized social movements may dampen the chance of major policy changes instead of promoting them. We briefly present the general model and the data before proceeding to the bounded exploratory analysis. This analysis raises questions about the role played by antinuclear movements in their quest for a major policy change. A theoretical explanation is then presented in an attempt to contribute to the clarification of the movement-policy debate.

YANEZ, C. J. N. (Dec 2004), "Participatory Democracy and Political Opportunism: Municipal Experience in Italy and Spain (1960-93)", International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 28, 4, 819-+.
Abstract: The relationship between local scale and participatory democracy is one of the main issues of normative theory of democracy. This article tries to show that the development of this model of democracy also depends on institutional factors. In his political opportunism hypothesis the author proposes that local governments have to develop adaptive strategies to make electoral victory compatible with offers of opportunities of participation: on the one hand, because the parties have to make government or opposition action compatible between local and central political levels; on the other, because the supply of participation presupposes the redistribution of power among local interest groups and the possibility of imposing limits over local government actions. To test this hypothesis, the author analyses data on citizen participation among Italian and Spanish local governments by qualitative comparative analysis (QCA). In conclusion, the author argues that political opportunism could limit local democratization and new urban governance initiatives.

Yonetani, Miya, "Gengokenundo No Shakaiteki Na Haikei to Wa. [About the Social Background of Language Rights Protests.]." (2003): 51. 2003.

YONETANI, Miya, ISHIDA, Atsushi, and KOSAKA, Kenji (9.18.2003/9.21.2003), "Determinants of Linguistic Human Rights Movement", paper presented at : 2nd ECPR General Conference, Section "Methodological Advances in Comparative Research : Concepts, Techniques, Applications", Panel "QCA (Qualitative Comparative Analysis) in Comparative Research: Applications", Marburg, Germany,
Abstract:We examine the social background of movements for linguistic human rights by way of QCA analysis. Linguistic human rights have been a focus of interests widely among scholars, but no sustained effort was done to see determinants of the social background of movements for the rights. We chose candidate factors such as diversity of languages within a country, literacy rate, population size, national income as an index of affluence, and existence of constitution supporting the rights to explain the occurrence of social movements. We collected and created data in proper form for 157 countries in the world, which was subject to QCA analysis. Our conclusion is that the economic affluence and perhaps the educational level play greater roles for linguistic minority people to assert their human rights. An explicit formula will be shown and discussed in the main text.

ZINTZ, Thierry and WINAND, Mathieu (2011, forthcoming), Handbook of Research on Sport and Business : Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) of Sport Governing Bodies, Berlin, Edward Elgar.

ZINTZ, Thierry, WINAND, Mathieu, RIHOUX, Benoît, and ROBINSON, Leigh (2011, revise & resubmit), "Pathways to High Performance", Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly ,