From action research to validity, this innovative and informative text will prove an invaluable guide to a variety of core research concepts in both political science and international relations. Key Features: - Each entry is consistently structured, providing: a simple definition, a focused explanation, a summary of current debates and areas of research, further reading, and references to other related concepts. - Explains how research methods are used and highlights alternative research concepts and strategies. - Cross-relates entries, enabling you to dip in to topics and follow threads throughout the book. - Packed with illuminating examples to help you to apply theory to the 'real world' of political analysis. An essential companion for students of Politics and International Relations at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.