QCA — Set-Theoretic, Configurational, Equifinal

Skill type: ANALYSIS MODULE. Qualitative Comparative Analysis (Ragin) treats cases as configurations of conditions and asks which combinations are consistently sufficient (or necessary) for an outcome. It is not net-effects regression: it assumes equifinality (several paths to the same outcome), conjunctural causation (conditions work in combination), and asymmetry (the path to Y is not the mirror of the path to not-Y).

Core Mission

QCA IS ABOUT COMBINATIONS AND SET RELATIONS, NOT AVERAGE MARGINAL EFFECTS. CALIBRATE, THEN MINIMIZE.

When to Use This Skill