What makes HPE research distinct?

As the term suggests, HPE research typically lies at the intersection of three disciplines: history, political science, and economics. Yet, it differs from purely historic research in the use of social-scientific methods and theory, and from economics or economic history as it places special importance on the centrality of politics for institutional development. It is also distinct from much of contemporary political economy research as it places a greater emphasis on the historical development and legacy of institutions.

Is there an HPE “method”?

The short answer: No.

The long answer: Because HPE-related research tends to be interdisciplinary, researchers usually rely on a range of methodological approaches from history, political science, and economics. HPE researchers often move beyond single-case studies and seek to collect new, systematic data on past events and institutional dynamics. But because historical data tend to be imperfect, “triangulation” is a central part of HPE research as we try to support our theoretical arguments with both, broader quantitative analyses and in-depth qualitative evidence to get as close to the “truth” as possible.

Good HPE research therefore requires researchers to acquire a breadth of methodological knowledge and skills, which can seem too much of a time investment. That said, HPE as a field of inquiry also offers a uniquely varied research experience as we dive into historical archives, digitize administrative records to collect novel data, conduct interviews with key actors of past events, or consult oral histories to understand past political experiences.