Regional Political Analysis: Considerations Concerning the Construction of an Object of Study

A discussion of methodological considerations concerning the problem of constructing an object of study. The constitution of political forces in certain regions of Mexico is examined as a concrete example, focusing on the way in which relations between society & state are re-elaborated in the re...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Revista mexicana de sociología 1987-01, Vol.49 (1), p.145-166
Main Authors: Valencia Garcia, Guadalupe, Flores Davila, Julia Isabel
Format: Article
Language:Spanish
Subjects:
Concept Formation
Methodology (Philosophical)
Political Sociology
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Summary:A discussion of methodological considerations concerning the problem of constructing an object of study. The constitution of political forces in certain regions of Mexico is examined as a concrete example, focusing on the way in which relations between society & state are re-elaborated in the regional perspective. The point of departure is the relationship between subject & reality, as posed in the epistemological perspective of the construction of the object. It is proposed that object of study & method should be treated jointly in the process of investigation, in order to construct a relation of knowledge that, without ignoring theory, will be closer to the complexity & multidimensionality of reality. The exigencies & frame of reference of this approach are discussed. The working hypothesis of the study of political phenomena in Mexico is that the structural elements -- economic, political, social, & cultural -- of each region & their specific form of integration determine the region's political behavior & organization & its relations with the center. The analysis focuses on the time of Mexico's political reform (1976/77). The exercise of power, power relations, & processes of political mediation within regions & between regions & the state are examined, revealing the close links between the cultural structure & its function for the political system. 1 Figure, 10 References. AA Tr & Modified by C. Waters
ISSN:0188-2503