How do political scientists use empirical evidence to study governments?

Political scientists study governments and political phenomena by employing empirical methods to organize knowledge based on observed facts. This approach generally divides into two primary categories of analysis:1

Qualitative Studies

Qualitative research focuses on descriptive insights, often used when topics are not easily quantified or involve private decision-making. Common techniques include:2
* Archival Analysis: Examining historical records and policy history to identify patterns, pitfalls, and lessons from the past.3
* Personal Interviews: Gathering wisdom and informal lessons from elected or appointed officials, which provides flexibility in collecting data on policy processes and outcomes.32
* Descriptive Observation: Using techniques similar to journalism to understand how decisions are made within small groups or behind closed doors.2

Quantitative Studies

Quantitative research seeks to establish statistical relationships between variables, often using data to test theories.14
* Behavioralism: A dominant 20th-century approach that limits study to observable, quantifiable phenomena. Researchers use election data, demographic statistics, and public opinion surveys—such as the Eurobarometer series—to analyze voting behavior and political trends.4
* Cost-Benefit Analysis: A tool used to compare the expected costs and benefits of policy choices, often converting these into monetary terms to evaluate policy effectiveness.3

While quantitative methods provide a rigorous statistical base, they are often criticized for failing to capture the nuances of governance or for being inapplicable in regions where such data is unavailable. Consequently, many scholars now employ a mix of these methods to better understand the complexities of the political system.42