Comparing measures of democracy: statistical properties, convergence, and interchangeability

Abstract By comparing and analysing four cross-national measures of democracy, this article provides novel information regarding the statistical properties, convergence, interchangeability some most frequently used democracy. The author points out limitations related to properties these finds that even if democracy are highly convergent, their is weak. This means choice measure has considerable consequences for conclusions a given study. Especially so in studies covering last few decades, because general decreased since 1980s. In choosing one over another, scholars should be aware identified article. To overcome problems weak interchangeability, single cannot credibly chosen on theoretical grounds, recommends users validate findings with multiple