Comparative Politics in the 21st Century

The subject matter of Comparative Politics is fundamentally in flux due to changing forms of statehood and of policy-making practices within complex governance processes. Apart from changes inherent within the field of Political Science, this is also having significant effects upon the research process. We will therefore discuss related methodological and theoretical challenges, as well as possible solutions, such as multi-level analysis and diffusion research. After briefly outlining research-relevant subject areas, we will conclude by addressing two elements of a progressive research strategy, namely an orientation towards governance and a stronger cooperation of inter- as well as intra-disciplinary aspects.