Selecting Cases and Inferential Types in Comparative Public Policy Research

Abstract

This chapter presents an outline for a comparative research by design (as opposed to a comparative research by outcome). Starting with different classic comparative research designs and different inferential types it introduces the reader into one of the key aspects of the comparative method: case selection. Throughout the chapter it is argued that cases need to be selected based on the additional level of variety they provide. This as variety in cases and case characteristics is considered key in understanding the object of study and drawing strong inferences. Subsequently, the chapter presents a research design that exactly builds on variety, a compound research design, and guides the reader through this design and its strengths. Finally, the chapter concludes with a step-wise approach for carrying out comparative research. This to help the reader overcome much of the existing critique to comparative policy studies.