Boolean algebra

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Chapter 5 in Qualitative Comparative Analysis, 2024, pp 55-69 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Boolean algebra is QCA’s formal language, which it uses to describe cross-case patterns. Cases have (a degree of) membership in a set. If all cases that are in the outcome set (Y) are also in the explanatory condition set (X), but not all X cases are also Y cases, then X is a superset of Y. This means that X is necessary for Y. If all X cases are also Y cases, but not all Y cases are also X cases, then X is a subset of Y. This means that X is sufficient for Y. QCA is designed to find configurations of conditions that are sufficient for the outcome. Conditions describe cases, and configurations describe cases in complex ways. Individual conditions may be necessary but are almost never sufficient. Boolean algebra combines conditions in intersections (conjunctions) with logical ANDs, and in unions (disjunctions) with logical ORs.

Keywords: Economics and Finance; Geography; Research Methods; Urban and Regional Studies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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