fuzzy logic or fuzzy application? a response to Stockemer’s ‘fuzzy set or fuzzy logic?

In a recent article in this journal, Stockemer characterizes fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) in comparison with Ordinary Least Squares regression as a ‘poor methodological choice’ because of its ‘suboptimal nature’ for the study of descriptive female representation in national assemblies across the globe. This article seeks to demonstrate that his judgments are based on two misconceptions: first, a misunderstanding of set-theoretical thinking in general, and specifically Qualitative Comparative Analysis; and second, a misinformed application throughout various steps of the fsQCA, for example, the calibration process, the analysis of necessary and sufficient conditions, and the interpretation of the results. In pointing out the weaknesses of Stockemer’s application of OLS, we argue – in contrast to Stockemer – that fsQCA can be a valuable tool for the comparative study of social phenomena, which offers a fundamentally different analytical perspective from standard quantitative techniques.