Lexington Books Multiple Paths to Knowledge in International Relations: Methodology in the Study of Conflict Management and Conflict Resolution (Innovations in the Study of World Politics)

Multiple Paths to Knowledge in International Relations provides a uniquely valuable view of current approaches and findings in conflict studies. This volume showcases work informed by four powerful research tools: rational choice theory and game theory; simulation, experimentation, and artificial intelligence; quantitative studies; and case studies. Each research method is introduced and evaluated for its specific potential, including both strengths and weaknesses. Throughout, the notable contributors clearly explain how they choose, frame, and go about answering questions. While expanding our knowledge of particular conflicts, from the Crimean War to the Vietnam War to ongoing Palestinian-Israeli instability, Multiple Paths also furthers our understanding of how to conduct research in international relations. Review An eclectic, creative, and open-minded effort to compare the strengths and differences of major research methodologies when addressed to similar questions. Graduate students, young scholars, and veterans all can find useful material here.--Bruce Russett, Dean Acheson Professor of International Relations, Yale University A rare inside look into the researcher's mind that allows the reader to see how to use various methods and to compare their utility. Both students and scholars will find this an invaluable tool. Of special interest is the posthumous publication of Stuart Bremer's highly informative study on the factors associated with compromise settlements in miltarized disputes.--John A. Vasquez, Mackie Scholar in International Relations, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Multiple Paths to Knowledge in International Relations is a remarkable book that delivers exactly what it promises, insight into how research is done and insight into alternative methods for attacking closely related problems. The contributors, a distinguished and methodologically diverse set of scholars, were given the task of exploring a set of research questions from different methodological perspectives while helping readers understand the choices they made. Each essay is a cutting-edge study of an important aspect of conflict management and conflict resolution. Each essay is crafted to advance our understanding of why, how, and when to use particular methods, and each is a superb tool for teaching graduate students and advanced undergraduates. This book will surely become a mainstay of the international relations curriculum.--Bruce Bueno de Mesquita, Silver Professor and Chair, Department of Politics, NYU; Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University About the Author Zeev Maoz is Professor of Political Science at Tel Aviv University. Alex Mintz is Cullen-McFadden Professor of Political Science, Texas A&M University and Fellow, U.N. Studies, Yale University. T. Clifton Morgan is Professor and Chair of Political Science at Rice University. Glenn Palmer is Associate Professor of Political Science at Penn State University. Richard J. Stoll is Professor of Political Science and Associate Dean of the Social Sciences at Rice University.