This exciting new text consolidates the hows and whys of researching powerful people. Written by a leading authority in the field, this book introduces the reader to a significant area of methodology, and provides a research-based contribution to elite and leadership studies. It offers a truly international perspective that will appeal to those studying and engaging with powerful people in a variety of contexts. Useful features include: - A variety of case studies and examples linked to over 1000 sources and resources - Extensive use of figures throughout the text to illustrate key points - Templates and models for planning and presentations The book promotes a practical future-oriented approach to support and inspire academic, professional and civil society researchers at all levels. It introduces new research frameworks and facilitates critical techniques through Critical Process Analysis. This is a must-have resource and an excellent new addition to the field of elite and leadership studies.
Chris Williams works at the Centre for International Education and Research, University of Birmingham, and was previously with the United Nations University Leadership Academy.
PART ONE: INTRODUCTION Why Research Powerful People? Who the Book Is for Key Concepts How the Book Was Researched A Quick Guide to the Book The Chapters PART TWO: UNDERSTANDING Origins Anthropology History Philosophy Up-System Research Theory Power Elites Leadership Populace Critique PART THREE: DOING Literature Searching Reviewing Topics Planning Design Focus Problematization Definitions Access Integrity Frameworks Direct Indirect Networks and Systems Data Sources Selection Testing PART FOUR: USING Analysis Comparison Causation Consistency Contra-Arguments Common Sense Critical Process Analysis Conceptualization Outcomes Reporting Presentation Influencing Change Appendices - Tools and Templates for Research Planning Mapping a case study within a conceptual framework Linking the elements of a research study A basic research design A basic Gantt chart Achieving focus at, or across, specific levels Systematic links from topic to data collection Making distinctions between elite and leadership roles Explaining the focus of a study Standard research frameworks Relating basic questions to frameworks and information sources Comparing journalistic and academic approaches to access Instruments to implement power The structure of a press release Glossary Internet Sources References
This is an excellent and timely addition to the literature on elites and I would strongly recommend this book to those who are new to this field and are looking for a thorough overview of elites as well as practical guidance on researching, analysing and publishing on this group William Harvey The University of Sydney Business School
