Ideologies as theoretical models: a new approach towards morphological analysis

Abstract

In this paper, I develop on the concerns specified by Maynard (2013) regarding ‘inter-approach ignorance’ in the study of ideologies as being exhibited to the detriment of morphological analysis. First, I provide an overview of this approach, I then identify an important ‘blindspot’ and detail on its significance – the case of grassroots movements and the initial ’decontestation’. Finally, I advance the view of ideologies as personal theoretical models to offer a starting point for resolving that drawback of morphological analysis, and present an overarching account that would satisfy the conceptual needs of both political theorists and political scientists .