Spring 2008 Course Description

Policy Research Paradigms

Instructor(s): James Galbraith
Course: P A 391C - Policy Research Paradigms
Unique Number: 64415
Day & Time: Thursdays, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Room: SRH 3.108
Waitlist Information:For LBJ Students: UT Waitlist Information

Description: This class is concerned broadly with the problem of how to make a persuasive argument in social science research. It covers three broad themes: (a) the philosophy of science as applied in the social sphere, (b) the metaphors and models that social science borrows from physics and biology, specifically equilibrium and evolution, and (c) the role that a well-chosen mathematical model can play as a device to foster clarity and generality in the communication of ideas. Students seeking fresh alternatives to the standard ways framing of technical research arguments may find this class useful.

This class is designed for Ph.D. students, but a limited number of M.P.Aff students may take it by permission. Ph.D. students from other departments are especially welcome.

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