Current Political Economic Situation of HK (Extension)

Research Project
Overview
• This is an independent, original research project that you design, carry out, and
write up over the course of this semester.
• The topic is your choice, provided it falls under the broad area of Political
Economy (if you are unsure, see me!), and should be investigated according to
formal scientific standards.
• Papers should be 25-30 pages, including bibliography, figures, tables, graphs, etc.
• Bibliography and citation format can be whatever you prefer, provided it is formal
and consistent.
Paper
The paper will be judged on:
• Argument: The depth and thoughtfulness with which you have crafted and
described your research question and argument/answer (thesis statement, plus
supporting logic).
• Methods: The rigor and thoroughness with which you have evaluated your
argument and answered the question.
• Clarity (written): The clarity and organization with which you present your
question, argument, and findings in the paper.
• Clarity (presentation): The clarity and organization with which you present your
question, argument, and findings in a short presentation.
Proposal
By Friday, Oct. 3 you should email me a proposal for the paper. This can be a single
page document – it does not need to be long. In this document you should describe:
• Proposed topic, stated in the form of a research question.
• Brief discussion of the motivation for this question/topic (why does it matter?).
• Proposed argument or arguments you will make.
• Proposed method(s) for evaluating that argument.
• A description of any challenges associated with any of the above and a discussion
of how you might work around them.