AP Comparative Government and Politics / Unit 1: Political Systems, Regimes, and Governments
1.1 The Practice of Political Scientists
Notes
Political scientists compare countries using empirical data (facts) and normative statements (values).
- Correlation isn't causation.
- AP studies six course countries: the UK, Russia, China, Iran, Mexico and Nigeria.
Practice
"Mexico's GDP grew last year" is:
A checkable fact.
"Nigeria should adopt proportional representation" is:
A value judgment.
Two things happening together doesn't prove one causes the other. This is:
Basic research caution.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 1 test.