A Note on Set-Theoretic Configuration in Qualitative Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This research note clarifies QCA solutions terms from a set-theoretic configurational perspective, and dispels claims that conservative, intermediate, and parsimonious solution terms are in subset/superset relationship. In contrast to previous literature claims, the three solution terms are equal in their set-theoretic dimension.

Keywords: QCA, fsQCA, Set Theory, Empty Set, Solution Formula, Euler Diagrams, Venn Diagrams