While browsing for more distractions in the world of blogging that would add to my understanding of political science, I happily came across Theory Talks, a website devoted to promoting discussion about political science by interviewing prominent writers in our discipline.
For example, the latest post includes a lengthy question and answer with Robert Keohane. I do enjoy this short snippet on the nature of our science:
Do you think it is possible for a theorist who has conceived a “big idea” to change his stripes?
Sociologically and psychologically, it would be too much to expect a theorist to renounce a view that he or she had considered seriously over a period of years and come to after much reflection. Scientists become invested in their ideas; this is why Kuhn emphasizes the need for new generations. I do think that progress is largely made by graduate students “voting with their feet” – going where the interesting new problems are.
Obviously, I need to go back and read the remaining interviews that I missed while looking forward to future ones.
Michael A. Allen is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Boise State University. His research focuses on international conflict, military alliances, and quantitative methods in international relations and comparative politics.