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15-06-2022

Tracing tacit knowledge of polity research: a methodological account of system and environment

Author: Krzysztof Kasianiuk

Published in: Quality & Quantity | Special Issue 1/2023

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Abstract

Researching polity dynamics starts with making assumptions about nature and objects of inquiry. But these assumptions are frequently tacitly acknowledged in a variety of polity studies. The article discusses basic assumptions of polity research by focusing on the relationship between polity and its context. I argue that these assumptions do not stem from a particular theory, strand of theories, or paradigms, but from a technical need to identify an object of study and are inherent in making distinctions. To show this, I use a systems analysis scheme. I base the discussion on a structural–functional methodological approach to political phenomena: the black box and white box system identification models and system-environment relationship. As a result, I propose a Polity-Context Classification Framework. The proposed framework might help overcome some discrepancies among polity studies and the search for more complimentary, comprehensive, and integrated views on polity dynamics.

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Title: Tracing tacit knowledge of polity research: a methodological account of system and environment
Author: Krzysztof Kasianiuk
Publication date: 15-06-2022
Publisher: Springer Netherlands
Published in: Quality & Quantity / Issue Special Issue 1/2023
Print ISSN: 0033-5177
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7845
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11135-022-01450-5

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