VOL. 4 NO. 1, 2021
https://doi.org/10.26772/cijds-2021-04-01-08
140
RESEARCH IN POLITICAL SCIENCE: THE IMPERATIVE FOR
THEORY BUILDING
Oyekanmi, Abdullahi Abiodun
Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode,
Ogun State, Nigeria Email: [email protected]
ABSTRACT
Research in Political Science is an interesting academic exercise. The outcome
opens new frontiers of knowledge on the fundamental economic and political
problems of men. It also provides testable solutions to the identified problems.
For research to serve its core purpose and have her result trusted, it must be
anchored on relevant theories to focus- guide the research and confer scientific
credibility on its outcome. Relevant studies and experience have however shown
that many beginner research students in political science do not appreciate the
value of theory in relation to research and are lacking in technical skills needed
in theory building. Many supervisors and lecturers consented that many of their
research students are always confused when it comes to theorization. This study
is a practical guide to motivate, help and conscientize students of politics on the
value of theory and the practical steps to theory building. The paper which is
descriptive, with secondary sources of information, discovered that existing
theories are overused, research students do not know how to apply relevant theory
to research and that it is worrisome that, they do not appreciate the need to build
new theories. The study, recommends more qualitative research, a separate tutor-
guide approach to expose students of politics to many available theories across
all discipline and to mandate them on the need to build at least newly self-
constructed theory to anchor any of their research in political science.
Key words: Politics, research, science, theory, theory building
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Conducting research in the field of political science is an interesting
endeavor, as it relates to the constant changing phenomenon and dynamic
political behavior of men. It is ubiquitous to anchor research on testable
theories, due to the predictive, explanatory and scientific values it adds to
research. Many studies have observed a growing problem that many
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research students are lacking in the innovative minds, working procedures
and mastery of suitable theories for their research. (Fischer, 2010; Harlow,
2009; Stam, 2007; Wacker, 1999& Jason, 2017)
It is more worrisome that many of the theories available in political science
have been saturated and over used by scholars, not only in the disciplines
but in other social sciences. It is now imperative that political science as a
leading social science can continue with this garb of honor, if her
researchers become more innovative in theory buildings as a building block
of research. In the opinion of Adewunmi (2017), the demonstration of
academic seriousness by political scientist includes being so resourceful
and innovative in theory building. He argued that it is the beauty of
academic freedom to construct or adopt a convincing intellectual
proposition in the foray of research.
Glaringly, there is intertwining relationship between academic research and
theory generation. The development of theory is dependent on research and
likewise, research is contingent on theory (Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Harlow (2009), espoused the close relationship between research and
theory and emphasizing the unavoidable linkage therein, and developed the
term retroduction, an extant meaning for the interplay between theory
building and research endeavors.
This paper is set out to help motivate and guide researchers, most especially
research students in political science, in the choice of appropriate theories
in their research, to design and broaden general and technical
understanding on the need to self-construct, test and adopt newly built
theories in testing, explaining and predicting research phenomenon in an
evolving political and academic world.
2.0 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
The brief but succinct discussion of these following terms are considered
necessary to appreciate conceptual framework as embedded in this paper
and to prepare background definitions of the key words herein.
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Theory
The popular perception on theory is that it helps in analyzing research areas
to enhance predictive outcome and value effects. Although, there is no
consensus definition on the principle, types and method of theory used in
research. (Wacker, 1999; Harlow, 2009; Stam, 2007; Gelso, 2006; Sutton
& Straw, 1995; Weick, 1995).
Parsons (1964) “states theory as a systematized research through scientific
law and value. For Galtung (1985), theory is a streamlined statement of
assumptions structured through research processes to produce relationship
and new facts from research activities.
Theory is an aggregated fact that explains new discoveries and frontiers of
knowledge, designed to empiricise, test, analyze and predict research
outcome (Kaplan, 1964). In the word of Stam (2007), theory is a
systematized knowledge that is intently deployed to solving identified
problem from research phenomenon. Malmi and Granlund (2009), opined
that theory is an encompassing generalization of knowledge as observed
from research enclave.
Osuala, (2019) opines theory as organized knowledge which includes
tested and verified information, to explain research findings. The inference
here is that theories are basic assumption of investigated truth drawn from
observable issues, variables or phenomenon.
Gelso (2018), identified out nine index attributes of theory which are;
descriptive ability, explanatory power, heuristic value, testability,
integration, parsimony, clarity, comprehensiveness, and delimitation.
Theory Building
Theory building is viewed as the planned activities and persistent logic of
explaining investigated experience for the purpose of x-raying the
weakness and strength therein and for possible improvement. (Lynham,
2000). Building theory is an intellectual engagement, using logical
deductions to observe and explain research endeavors (Dubin, 1976).
Marsick (1990), reveals that for research to serve it purpose, it needs to
evolve through rigorous process, justify its relevance in academic world
and it must not ignore the application of theory. In the opinion of Swanson
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(1997; Gall and Borg (1996) theory building is an academic inquiry for the
purpose of research.
Research
Research is the scientific organization of knowledge, the process which
helps to collect, analyze information for the purpose of increasing general
and specific understanding of phenomenon. (Leedy & Ormond, 2005). In
the words of Ellis and Levy (2008), research is a careful design of
collecting verifiable information, analyzing it for the generation of
knowledge. The worthwhile nature of research is for it to lead to discovery
of new frontiers of knowledge or at best validating the earlier proffered
research submission.
Wacker (1999), in his submission emphasized the core purposes of research
as the need to conduct fact finding and develop theories from the
observation thereof. Simply put, research opens a floodgate of standpoints
for theory to emanate. Selltiz, et. al (1974) posited that research is the
activities undertaken in other to seek answers to questions or problem
through the application of scientific procedures. In furtherance to this
opinion, the concept of research is sometimes equated with science. This
inspired Kerlingers (1977) to reiterate that when men get involved in
careful scientific enquiries on hypothetical relations among phenomenon
through empirical means, research has surely taken place. This
undoubtedly equates research with science. Nwana (2017), sees research as
the techniques of finding answers to research questions.
A more elaborate definition has been offered by Nwana (1981) who opined
research as the systematic investigations on fundamental issues relating
discovery of knowledge and the means from which new fact emerged. It is
an intensive study and orderly learning of new facts, in relations to
proposed and tested ideas.
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2.1 The Review of Literature
Theory Building and Research in Political Science: Relationship in
Focus
Theory and research are inseparable for empirical discoveries of
knowledge not turn utopian. In theory building, researcher is guided by
clarity of ideas on the type and method of research at hand; qualitative or
quantitative. In sum, research and theory have interjectory relationship
(Fawcett & Downs, 1986).
Gay and Weaver (2011), affirmed that research findings assist to strengthen
existing theories review and discover stop-gap in theoretical knowledge.
The connecting bridge between research and theory stems from the reality
that, while theory improves researcher with various available strategies to
qualitative or quantitative research, research on the other hand, leads to
generation of new theories from concluded research, (Harlow,2009).
Holten and Lowe (2007) did not undervalue the relationship between
research and theory in their discussion. It was affirmed that theory advances
research knowledge on whose new constructs, researchers seek to conduct
repeated research to verify and discover new theory.
Tips to Building Theory in Political Science Research
Relying on the various discussions on theory, theory building is a scholarly
innovation and intellectual probity into new ideas and validated opinion on
research phenomenon. It is a way of building on the existing theory, to
create new set of theory that can be flexibly adapted into new research or
existing research for the purpose of refinement and validity of knowledge.
Gioia and Patre (1990), argued that there is no universal accepted method
of theory building nor is it necessary to have one. This emphasizes the
earlier held opinion that theory building is an evolving intellectual probity
of research phenomenon, restricting theory building to single method is to
limit its uniqueness and cage its logical profoundness.
However, to Muhamed (2014), there are three main activities involved in
the process of theory building:
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a. Theory Abduction: This is the first stage in the theory formulation circles
wherein the researcher dwell on the consciousness to build theory in
response to a proposed investigation.
b. Theory Construction: it is the logical deduction of putting theoretical
strands together to construct a theory. It is the formulation stage in the
theory circle.
c. Theory Evaluation: The third stage of this theory is the application and
evaluation of the reliability and validity of the new theory through
deductive reasoning.
The following are other tips as espoused by selected scholars of notes;
3.0 Conceptual Development
Dublin (1978) and Lynham, (2000) consent that theorist would have to
demonstrate versed understanding and profound explanatory knowledge on
research problem by having deeper understanding of all the concepts in any
research endeavor. This is the conceptual clarification stage in the
theorization circle that provides information on the dynamics of the
problem under investigation.
There are veers of methods and procedures to building theories,
nonetheless, the irreducible minimum that must be adhered to in conceptual
generation is a clear understanding of how the concept relates to the
problem of investigation from which theoretical framework is expected to
emanate from. (Dubin, 1978 and Kaplan, 1964).
Operationalization
Cohen, (1991) echoes the need to implement the generated theory through
testing and re-testing procedure to validate research. He calls this, the
linkage between concept and practice. The validity of theoretical
framework is only guaranteed through scientific observation of its elements
and testability of ensuing hypothesis.
Confirmation or Disconfirmation
Studies in research methodology concludes that theories are built to
validate existing knowledge or to disapprove extant theoretical conclusions
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based new findings, (Adewunmi, 2017). In essence theory building need
adequate planning, application and assessment in line with the studies at
hand. The consequence of these stages would inform researcher to continue
in the usage of the theory based on relevance or to discontinue based on
spotted errors. The efficacy and reliability of the theory is tested in this
stage.
Borrowing Theoretical Constructs from Elsewhere
The interdisciplinary relationship in behavioral sciences helps to approach
research from multifaceted perspectives, creating intellectual strands with
competing ideas and helping alternative easy way of undertaking research.
A perfect way to do this is not to only focus on self-discipline to generate
theory, one must look into other areas of studies from social or applied
sciences to borrow relevant elements to regenerate theory. Notable scholars
like Von Berta nlanffy and David Easton did not shy away from adopting
their theoretical bases of General System theory, a theory which is still
popular till date. Cohen& Elizabeth (2019), asserted that to draw
inferences from the hypothetical elements from different discipline is
edifying and useful for researcher when developing theoretical framework.
Proper Usage of the Theory
Theoretical framework is a tour guide to research activities to review and
explain important literatures and it provide easy ways of linking the studies
with the problem of investigation. In the process of doing this, the theory
in use must be continuously emphasized in the research process. The
elements in the theoretical framework must be fully explored. However, if
the inadequacy of the theory is discovered, it should be refined or jettisoned
for new theory (Fleet&Anthony, 2006).
Challenging the Validity of an Existing Theory
Shepared (2018) and Roy (2019), argued that theories are generated to be
tested and the emanating assumptions are to reviewed and challenged;
theories are not static, but are meant to formulate agreed universal laws to
predict, analyze and explain the phenomenon of research in other to arrive
at a trusted outcomes. In line with this to ascertain that knowledge is not
static and that it is subjected to continual growth and development,
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theoretical testing of assumptions is key. If one is to apply an existing
theory to a research problem, the analysis may include the expectation by
the supervisor that one should offer modifications to the theory based on
research findings.
4.0 Relevance of Theory Building in Political Science Research
Research in Political Science is tricky and complex in its procedures as the
phenomenon being observed are constantly changing, hence the need for
dynamic and updated theory in conducting political research. Theory
building is like a torchlight, a moonlighting activities that helps to simplify
research procedures. It helps political science researchers in focus on the
real variables of investigation and make research an ordered procedure.
Every good research is expected to be anchored on relevant theories. Since
the researcher is at liberty to decide on a better theory to explain his
findings, he would do so well by constructing self-theory in research. It is
a consensual opinion among scholars and researchers in training that
phenomenon of investigations is a strong determinant of the type of theory
to be adopted, hence the need for researcher in Political Science to develop
probing nerves in x-raying existing theories in research field, identifying
the low points therein and therefore offer new intellectual strengths to
develop and construct new theories, whose elements and strands he can
well grab and control. The intellectual creativity of political scientists to
improve on his explanatory and predictive research is dependent on the
ease at which he can formulate, test and adopt new theories to explain
political problems or research variables as observed or validated if incase
of existing theory.
Aliaga & Gunderson (2000), noted that political problems of many years
ago still persist, although in varying dimensions. Hence the need for
political science researcher to explore intellectual theorization of ideas in
the search of solution. Adigun, (2010) corroborated this, that a modern
political scientist is better as an adventurous theorist of many intellectual
standing. The interdisciplinary nature of political science has made
research in it, an open entrance not only for other social sciences like
economics, sociology and anthropology, the pure sciences like Biology and
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Mathematics are equally having a field day most especially in the usage of
concepts and theory adaptation.
As enunciated in the work of Kaplan (1964), theory building allows for
proper mastery of the identified conceptual frameworks considered
worthwhile in any field of research. Suffice to contend that research in
political science is a syntax and rigor of political investigations which
requires in-depth understanding of all variables. In conclusion, when a
researcher in political science attempts theory building, there is propensity
to be exposed to varying concepts, better understanding of the issue of
investigation and alternative explanations to all issues of research under
review.
Building theory portend great possibility for the much touted science of
politics that has been the recurring desire of the behaviouralist. In building
new theories, new constructs and causal relationship of variables and
research phenomena are birthed to invalidate existing theory or refine as
the case may be. It is on this premise that many researchers would dwell on
the new theory, to examine its areas of strength, weakness and suitability
for empirical research and key into the towering language of research.
Holten and Lowe (2007) give credence to this fact in their emphases on
theory as the torchlight to scientific research. Theory building would help
students of politics to adequately problematize his research topic and
properly follow the rigorous procedures of theory to developed a detailed
and organized findings The ability of a political scientist to innovate and
independently theorize from the rigorous observation of problems
identified, confers the status of a science, professionalism and maturity in
the field of political science. Hatcher, (1999) refers to the researcher ability
to theorize as maturity in research.
Challenges facing Theory Building in Political Science Research
In building theory, the theory is never assumed to be complete and
excellently fitting to all emerging phenomenon, hence it places a burden on
the researcher, on the need to continually work on the theory to refine and
better develop it in line with new research reality or current trends in the
phenomenon of observation. Cohen (1991), and Root (1993), agree that
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theory building is not a quick fix in research procedures, the process is also
intensive. Researchers in Political Science is always preoccupied with
current research issues and must therefore adapt, develop and improve the
new theory in response to surging political dimensions on daily basis. This
places too much responsibility on political scientist, he is mandated to
continuously pay attention to the validity and reliability of the theory.
Theory building in Political Science research affects the relationship
between researcher and political actors or practitioners. The research output
as aided by the theory is expected to explain the action and administrative
initiative of the practitioners. In reality, theoretical explanations most times
do not conform to realities of political actions. Hence, theorist and
practitioners cannot always mutually agree on the predictive nature of
theory. The political scientist would therefore possibly have his theory
challenged if the practitioners finds contrasting result from the practical
reality. For instance, Aristotle’s index on poverty as a prelude to revolution
and propensity to commit crime stands challenged by the growing cases of
individuals and groups who habitually call for revolution and participate in
criminal activities in the name of ethnic agitations and geo- political
sentiments, as against the core explanations from Aristotle.
Research students in political science have not been able to fully benefit
from the maxim of academic freedom and intellectual strength of political
science. Many are not conscious of the need to break away from the
existing theories of many generations in social sciences, and therefore find
it difficult to be resourceful in combining constructs to formulate theory as
a result of phobia and stringent attachment to traditional theories.
5.0 Conclusion
Theory is an indispensable element in research endeavor and its place had
come to be cemented in political science as a social discipline. Not only
does it ensure organized and reliable research procedures, it offers
scientific credibility to the outcome of political research, as against fainted
assumption and surface guesses of untestable opinions.
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It was discovered that research students in political science are too attached
to the usage of generational theories of many years standing, a practice that
has overstressed these theories beyond measures. While a number of
supervisors are worried that many students appear lost in direction in the
need to properly connect relevant theory with the problem of
investigations, students on the other hand also habitually develop cold feats
and loss of self confidence in theorization process. The need for innovation
and building of new theories to respond and explain evolving political
problems is a concluded line of action if research students are to horn their
research skills and be exposed to new technical reality in theoretical
constructs.
5.1 Recommendations
The paper recommends that a tutor guide interaction between research
teachers and political science researcher is essential in a bid to review the
values of theoretical frameworks as it connects with research phenomenon.
Research students in political science need to be self-motivated and
encouraged to construct new theories to explain and predict the identified
problems in research, away from the popular theories. This would
undoubtedly lead to new areas of knowledge for more theories to be tested
on.
For research in political science to be distinct and unique from other
disciplines, researchers in political science should develop open inquiry to
building new theoretical paradigms capable of explaining the flaws in many
of the existing theories, using the noted gaps in such theories to build a new
and encompassing theory for explaining political phenomenon.
It is also recommended that postgraduate curriculum of political science
should also be reviewed with the possibility of including theory building as
a course of study. This would create a strong background and motivation
for students to be versed in theory generation.
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