COMPARATIVE POLITICAL STUDIES

Scope & Guideline

Championing Innovative Perspectives in Political Studies

Introduction

Welcome to the COMPARATIVE POLITICAL STUDIES information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of COMPARATIVE POLITICAL STUDIES, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0010-4140
PublisherSAGE PUBLICATIONS INC
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1968 to 2024
AbbreviationCOMP POLIT STUD / Comp. Polit. Stud.
Frequency14 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2455 TELLER RD, THOUSAND OAKS, CA 91320

Aims and Scopes

Comparative Political Studies focuses on the systematic analysis of political phenomena across different contexts, employing a variety of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. The journal aims to advance knowledge in comparative politics through empirical research that contributes to theoretical frameworks and policy implications.
  1. Comparative Politics:
    The journal emphasizes comparative analysis of political systems, institutions, and behaviors across different countries, aiming to identify patterns and differences that inform our understanding of governance.
  2. Political Behavior and Attitudes:
    Research on the dynamics of political behavior, including voting patterns, public opinion, and civic engagement, is a core focus, providing insights into how citizens interact with political systems.
  3. Authoritarian Regimes:
    A significant area of study involves the examination of authoritarianism, including the mechanisms of control, resistance, and the role of civil society in such contexts.
  4. Gender and Politics:
    The journal frequently explores issues related to gender, including representation, political participation, and the impact of gender on political dynamics.
  5. Political Economy:
    Analyzing the interplay between political structures and economic outcomes, including issues like clientelism, corruption, and the effects of economic policies on political stability.
  6. Social Movements and Mobilization:
    Studies on social movements, collective action, and grassroots mobilization are prominent, focusing on how these movements influence political change and policy.
  7. International Relations and Global Politics:
    The journal also addresses the effects of globalization, international conflicts, and transnational issues on domestic politics.
In recent years, Comparative Political Studies has witnessed the rise of several trending and emerging themes that reflect contemporary political challenges and evolving academic interests. This section outlines these themes, showcasing their relevance in the current political landscape.
  1. Impact of Digitalization on Politics:
    There is a growing interest in how digital technologies influence political behavior, governance, and citizen engagement, reflecting the transformative effects of the digital era on political processes.
  2. Climate Change and Political Cleavages:
    Research exploring the intersection of climate change with political identities and cleavages is emerging, indicating a recognition of environmental issues as central to contemporary political discourse.
  3. Populism and Authoritarianism:
    The rise of populism and its relationship with authoritarian practices is a significant focus, as scholars investigate how these phenomena reshape political landscapes globally.
  4. Intersectionality in Political Analysis:
    An increasing emphasis on intersectional approaches to politics, examining how various identities (gender, race, class) intersect to affect political participation and representation.
  5. Social Movements in Authoritarian Contexts:
    Emerging studies focus on the strategies and impacts of social movements in authoritarian regimes, highlighting resilience and adaptive tactics in the face of repression.
  6. Public Health and Politics:
    The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred research on the political implications of public health crises, examining governance responses, citizen compliance, and the politics of health equity.
  7. Migration and Political Dynamics:
    The relationship between migration and domestic politics is gaining traction, exploring how migration influences political attitudes, party dynamics, and policy-making.

Declining or Waning

While Comparative Political Studies continues to thrive in many areas, certain themes and topics have seen a notable decline in focus over recent years. This section highlights these waning scopes, suggesting shifts in research priorities within the field.
  1. Traditional Electoral Systems:
    Research on conventional electoral systems and their mechanics has decreased, as newer approaches emphasize the impact of digitalization and innovative electoral technologies.
  2. Historical Political Analysis:
    While historical perspectives remain relevant, there has been a noticeable decline in studies solely focused on historical political events without direct contemporary implications.
  3. Classic Political Theory:
    The application of classical political theory in comparative studies appears to be waning, with a growing preference for empirical research that directly addresses current political phenomena.
  4. Static Views of Political Institutions:
    The analysis of political institutions in a static context has diminished, as researchers increasingly focus on dynamic interactions and changes in institutional arrangements.
  5. Regional Studies with Limited Scope:
    Research that is overly focused on specific regions without broader comparative implications has decreased, as scholars now seek to draw connections across different political contexts.

Similar Journals

INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL SCIENCE REVIEW

Unveiling the Complexities of Global Politics Through Rigorous Analysis
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0192-5121Frequency: 5 issues/year

INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL SCIENCE REVIEW is a leading journal in the fields of Political Science and International Relations, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD. With a rich history dating back to 1980 and converging its expertise up to 2024, this esteemed publication holds a notable position in academia, evidenced by its impressive Q1 quartile rankings in both Political Science and Sociology categories for 2023. The journal’s Scopus rankings further enhance its reputation, proudly sitting in the top percentiles in its respective fields, which underscores its influence and importance for both researchers and practitioners. With a commitment to publishing rigorous research and comprehensive analyses, INTERNATIONAL POLITICAL SCIENCE REVIEW serves as a vital resource for those seeking to engage with the latest debates and developments in political science. Readers are encouraged to explore insightful articles and contribute to the discourse shaping our understanding of global political dynamics.

Revista Espanola de Ciencia Politica-RECP

Connecting Scholars to the Pulse of Political Science.
Publisher: ASOC ESPANOLA CIENCIA POLITICA & ADM-AECPAISSN: 1575-6548Frequency: 3 issues/year

Revista Espanola de Ciencia Politica (RECP) is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to the field of political science and international relations, published by the Asociación Española de Ciencia Política & Administración (AECPA). Since its inception in 1999, RECP has maintained a strong commitment to open access, ensuring that valuable research remains accessible to scholars worldwide. Based in Madrid, Spain, the journal has established itself as a significant resource for researchers, professionals, and students, providing insights into contemporary political issues and sociology. As part of its ongoing evolution, RECP has transitioned into a converged publication, covering years from 2012 to 2024, and currently holds a Q3 ranking in both political science and sociology, along with exhibiting competitive Scopus ranks. The journal's dedication to high-quality research makes it a vital platform for advancing discourse in political science, fostering academic collaboration, and contributing to the larger scientific community.

POLITICA Y GOBIERNO

Exploring the Dynamics of Politics and Policy
Publisher: CENTRO DE INVESTIGACION Y DOCENCIA ECONOMICASISSN: 1665-2037Frequency: 2 issues/year

POLITICA Y GOBIERNO is a prominent academic journal published by the CENTRO DE INVESTIGACION Y DOCENCIA ECONOMICAS and primarily focuses on the dynamic fields of Political Science and International Relations. Since its inception, the journal has provided a vital platform for scholars and practitioners to disseminate their research, contributing significantly to the discourse surrounding governance and public policy. With a commendable Q2 ranking in the category of Political Science and International Relations, it is recognized for its rigorous academic standards and impactful contributions, particularly in the Latin American context. The journal is committed to exploring critical issues related to politics and government, fostering discussions that shape policy and civic engagement, while being indexed in Scopus with a ranking of 380 out of 706 in its field. Although it does not offer open access, its comprehensive analyses and thought-provoking articles remain essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to deepen their understanding of governance and political dynamics in Mexico and beyond. The journal can be accessed through institutional subscriptions, ensuring it remains a crucial resource in the study of socio-political processes.

COMMONWEALTH & COMPARATIVE POLITICS

Advancing Comparative Insights for Global Governance
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1466-2043Frequency: 4 issues/year

COMMONWEALTH & COMPARATIVE POLITICS is a leading academic journal dedicated to the exploration and analysis of political systems and governance within the Commonwealth and beyond. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal provides a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students in the fields of Political Science and Sociology, with a notable focus on comparative studies that enhance our understanding of diverse political contexts. As evidenced by its current impact factor and category quartile status—ranked Q3 in both Political Science and Sociology—this journal is recognized for its contributions to contemporary political discourse. Over its publication history from 2002 to 2024, it has fostered critical dialogues, showcasing rigorous research that addresses pressing global issues. With an ISSN of 1466-2043 and an E-ISSN of 1743-9094, COMMONWEALTH & COMPARATIVE POLITICS offers an open access option, ensuring that its findings are widely disseminated and accessible. Researchers and scholars looking to engage with cutting-edge political analysis will find this journal an indispensable resource.

Austrian Journal of Political Science

Empowering Voices in Political Scholarship
Publisher: OSTERREICHISCHE GESELLSCHAFT POLITIKWISSENSCHAFTISSN: 2313-5433Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Austrian Journal of Political Science, published by the OSTERREICHISCHE GESELLSCHAFT POLITIKWISSENSCHAFT, is a pivotal scholarly resource in the field of political science and sociology. With an E-ISSN of 2313-5433, this open access journal has been promoting academic discourse since 2014, ensuring that research findings are accessible to a global audience. Based in Vienna, Austria, this journal plays a crucial role in shaping political studies by publishing innovative and impactful research that spans various aspects of political analysis, public policy, and social dynamics. Its significant standing is reflected in its Q3 category ranking in the 2023 Scopus database, where it holds a rank of 776 out of 1466 in the Social Sciences, demonstrating its relevance and contribution to contemporary scholarship. Researchers, professionals, and students are encouraged to engage with this valuable journal to stay informed on the latest advancements in political science.

European Political Science Review

Shaping the Future of Political Science
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1755-7739Frequency: 4 issues/year

European Political Science Review is a premier academic journal published by Cambridge University Press, dedicated to advancing the field of political science and international relations. With an esteemed Q1 ranking in both Political Science and International Relations and Sociology and Political Science, the journal consistently ranks among the top-tier publications, underscoring its critical role in shaping contemporary political discourse. The journal has its origins from 2009 and continues to publish cutting-edge research that engages scholars and practitioners alike. Notably, it boasts an impressive Scopus ranking, placing it in the top 6% of political science journals, highlighting its impact and relevance in the academic community. With a focus on innovative theoretical frameworks and empirical studies, the European Political Science Review offers an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of political science. Although it does not operate under an open access model, its rigorous peer-review process ensures high-quality scholarly content that remains a vital resource for understanding regional and global political dynamics.

Acta Politica

Exploring the Depths of Political Discourse
Publisher: PALGRAVE MACMILLAN LTDISSN: 0001-6810Frequency: 4 issues/year

Acta Politica, published by Palgrave Macmillan Ltd, is a distinguished academic journal in the field of Political Science and International Relations. With a robust impact factor and ranking in the top quartile (Q1) of its category for 2023, this journal serves as a vital resource for scholars and practitioners alike, fostering significant discourse on contemporary political issues. The journal is indexed in Scopus, where it holds a commendable rank of 180 out of 706 in its field, placing it in the 74th percentile, thus underscoring its importance and influence. Acta Politica is dedicated to the exploration of political theory, comparative politics, and international studies from 2006 to 2024, making it an essential avenue for innovative research. While the journal does not currently offer open access, the comprehensive and peer-reviewed articles featured within are invaluable for those seeking to deepen their understanding of complex political dynamics. Located in the United Kingdom, Acta Politica appeals to a global audience of researchers, professionals, and students interested in shaping the future of political science.

POLITICS & SOCIETY

Fostering innovative research at the intersection of politics and society.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0032-3292Frequency: 4 issues/year

POLITICS & SOCIETY is a premier journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing scholarly discourse in the fields of political science, sociology, and international relations. Established in the early 1970s, it has garnered a strong reputation, reflected in its esteemed Q1 rankings across multiple categories, including Political Science and International Relations, as well as Sociology. With a significant emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, the journal publishes innovative research that explores the complex interplay of politics and societal dynamics globally. Researchers aiming to publish high-quality articles will appreciate the journal's rigorous peer-review process and its commitment to theoretical and empirical excellence. Although not an open-access journal, it ensures wide accessibility through various institutional subscriptions. As the landscape of political and social studies evolves, POLITICS & SOCIETY remains at the forefront, making vital contributions to our understanding of the pressing issues that shape contemporary society.

Japanese Journal of Political Science

Fostering Insightful Dialogue on Japan's Political Future
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1468-1099Frequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to the Japanese Journal of Political Science, a leading platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of Political Science and International Relations, published by Cambridge University Press. With an established history since 2000, this journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-reviewed articles that contribute to the understanding of contemporary political dynamics and social phenomena within Japan and beyond. With an impact factor that places it in the Q2 quartile for Political Science, this journal is a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore innovative theories and empirical studies in political analysis. The journal’s accessible platform facilitates scholarly communication, contributing to its elevated rank within the Scopus indexing, holding a significant place within both Political Science and Sociology categories. Join a diverse community of scholars as you navigate the rich landscape of political studies through the authoritative lens of the Japanese Journal of Political Science.

AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

Connecting Scholars in the Study of Politics
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1036-1146Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Australian Journal of Political Science is a premier academic publication dedicated to the rigorous study and exploration of political phenomena, governance, and public policy, serving as a vital platform for scholarly exchange within the field. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this influential journal, with an ISSN of 1036-1146 and an E-ISSN of 1363-030X, has been a cornerstone of political science research since its inception in 1990, with the ongoing contribution to scholarship up until 2024. With a prestigious Q2 ranking in both Sociology and Political Science and an impressive Scopus rank of #522 out of 1466, the journal occupies a significant position within the academic community, boasting a 64th percentile ranking in these categories. The journal publishes original research articles that advance theoretical and empirical understanding, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students eager to engage with contemporary political issues. As a non-open access journal, it ensures that high-level research reaches a discerning audience while upholding the rigorous standards expected of a leading academic publication.