Prof. Barbara Harff's political science classes on the Middle East and Southeast Asia use a theoretical model and empirical indicators to assess the risks of future ethnopolitical protest and rebellion by groups such as the Chinese in Malaysia and Kurds in Iran. The model used, shown in Figure 5.1 below, identifies three group traits, two characteristics of governments, and two international variables that jointly determine the extent of ethnopolitical violence. The instructor emphasizes that social scientists seek to minimize error in the interpretation of theoretical ideas by describing concepts like group identity and external support in clear and unambiguous ways.
Concepts derive their meaning from careful observation of real-life situations.
Operational guidelines are proposed for each of the concepts in the model, as illustrated below. Students doing case studies find that information on specific indicators often is sketchy and imprecise-therefore inferences must be made using alternative indicators and multiple sources. The concept of discrimination refers to the extent of socially derived inequalities in ethnic group members' material well-being or political access in comparison with other social groups. The greater the differences in status by comparison to other groups, the greater the degree of discrimination. Indicators of discrimination.