The rapidly changing agenda for social science research on Latin America requires the rigorous application of new concepts and methodologies, including systematic comparisons of different world regions. For comparative analysis, the question is not only what to investigate but also how. Analytical chapters in this volume explore methodological strategies for cross-regional comparison, intraregional comparison, and the application of rational choice; topical chapters offer new approaches to the study of women, state power, corporatism, and political culture. A concluding section examines the political significance of public opinion research.