Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis

The empirical analysis of subsequent chapters in this book is based on fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA). This chapter introduces the methodological approach of fsQCA, placing emphasis on its core principles, specific terminology, and analytical procedures. In the first two sections, I justify the methodological choice of a set-theoretic approach against the backdrop of prevalent methods in democratic peace research. This is followed by a detailed introduction to the principles and terminology of QCA and fuzzy-set analysis, including a guide through the analytical procedure as conducted in the ensuing chapters. The final section concludes by addressing comparative strengths and limitations of the chosen approach. These keywords were added by machine and not by the authors. This process is experimental and the keywords may be updated as the learning algorithm improves.