Stephen Van Evera has a keen awareness of the questions that arise in every phase of the political science research project-from initial conception to final presentation. Although others may not agree with all of his specific advice, all will appreciate his user-friendly introduction to what is sometimes seen as an abstract and difficult topic. -Timothy J. McKeown, University of North ... Read moreCarolina, Chapel Hill Stephen Van Evera's Guide to Methods for Students of Political Science makes an important contribution toward improving the use of case studies for theory development and testing in the social sciences. His trenchant and concise views on issues ranging from epistemology to specific research techniques manage to convey not only the methods but the ethos of research. This book is essential reading for social science students at all levels who aspire to conduct rigorous research. -Alexander L. George, Stanford University, and Andrew Bennett, Georgetown University Show Less