explanatory instrument, in the sense that theory explains generalisation.
Models are aids to understanding and they may contribute indirectly to explanations, but, they do not have a part in the process. A model, generally, is an analogy, an isomorphic construction that is similar in
some, but not all, respects to the theory or phenomenon for which it is a model. To use a model is to use an analogy and it is subject to all of the limits imposed on analogous reasoning. In no case is the model casually related to the theory or object and in all cases the model is a simplification, a partial isomorphs (Kaplan, 1964).
Models are very useful tools and can aid the exploration of observable phenomena and relationships. A model is not an explanatory tool.
Models are used to gain insight into phenomena that the scientist cannot observe directly, such as power. In Policy analysis, for example, researchers construct models of the structures and processes of decision making, and deduce propositions relating to the behaviour of the decision makers. They then evaluate these propositions against the empirical data. Political analysts also use models to estimate the consequences of alternative courses of action that a decision maker might select. The models, therefore, provide a more systematic basis for policy choice than do subjective judgment (Nachimias and Nachimias, 2009).
Thus, a theory offers a systematic explanation of a body of empirical data. In contrast, a model is merely an explanatory device; it is more like a hypothesis that has yet to be tested. In that sense, in Politics, while theories can be said to be more or less “true”, models can only be said to be said to be more or less “useful”. However, theories and models are often interlined: broad political theories may be explained in terms of a series of models. For example, the theory of pluralism encompasses a model of the state; a model of electoral competition; a model of group politics and so on. In the same way class theories of politics advanced by Marxists are based on broader theories about history and society. Indeed, they ultimately rest upon the validity of an entire social philosophy.
There is, therefore, a sense in which analytical devices, such as models and micro-theories are constructed on the basis of broader macro- theories. These major theoretical tools of political analysis are those which address the issues of “power” and the role of the state: pluralism, elitism, class analysis and so on.
At a still deeper level, many of these macro-theories reflect the assumptions and beliefs of one or other of the major ideological traditions called paradigms
SELF-ASSESSMENT EXERCISE What is a theory?
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4.0 CONCLUSION
In this unit, we have discussed concepts, models, theories and other devices used as tools for political analysis. They provide the building blocks of knowledge. However, they are only analytical devices.
Although, they help to advance understanding, they are more rounded and coherent than the unshapely and complex realities they seek to describe. Sets of interrelated concepts, definitions and propositions that are advanced to explain and predict phenomena are called theories.
Models differ from theories, in that models are analogies or representations of some aspect of a system or of the system as a whole.
Models are used for description, explication and simulation.
5.0 SUMMARY
Ultimately, all political and social inquiries are conducted within a particular intellectual framework or ideological paradigm. However, virtually all conceptual devices, theories and models contain values or implicit assumptions. This is why it is difficult to construct theories that are purely empirical; values and normative beliefs invariably intrude.
Models and theories contain a range of biases. For example, it is difficult to accept the claim that rational choice theories are value neutral, as they are based on the assumption that human beings are basically egoistical and self-regarding. No wonder they often reach policy conclusions that are politically conservative. In the same way, class theories of politics, advanced by Marxists are based on broader theories about history and society and indeed, they ultimately rest upon the validity of an entire social philosophy.
Hence, models and micro-theories are constructed on the basis of broader macro-theories. These major theories may be explained in terms of series of models or micro-theories. For example, theory of pluralism may be explained through a model of a state; a model of group politics. Or role of state and power can be explained in terms of elitists or class analysis.
6.0 TUTOR-MARKED ASSIGNMENT
1. What is the relationship between a theory and model in political science research?
2. What is the role of paradigm in political science research?
7.0 REFERENCES/FURTHER READING
Blumberg, B., Cooper, D.R. & Schindler, P.S. (2005). Business Research Methods. U.K: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Easton, D. (1979). A System Analysis of Political Life. Chicago:
University of Chicago Press.
Eneanya, A.N. (2012). Research Methods in Political Science and Public Administration. Lagos: University of Lagos Press Ltd.
Kaplan, A. (1964). The Conduct of Inquiry. San Francisco: Chandler.
Merton, R. (1968). Social Theory and Social Structure. New York:
Free Press.
Nachimias, C.F. & Nachimias, D. (2009). Research Methods in the Social Sciences (5th ed.). London: Hodder Education.
Popper, K.R. (1961). The Logic of Scientific Discovery. New York:
Science Edition.
Reynolds, P..D. (1971). A Primer in Theory Construction. New York:
Macmillian.
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