Keith Dowding, English political scientist, philosopher, and academic

Professor Keith Martin Dowding, born on May 6, 1960, stands as a prominent and highly influential figure in the realms of political science and political philosophy. Currently serving as a Distinguished Professor within the School of Politics and International Relations at the Research School of Social Sciences, located at the esteemed Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Australia, his contributions have significantly shaped academic discourse.

His journey to ANU in 2007 followed a distinguished tenure at the London School of Economics (LSE) in the United Kingdom, a globally recognized institution for its rigorous social science research. This transition brought his expertise to a leading Australian university, further enriching its academic environment as a hub of intellectual activity in the Asia-Pacific region.

Professor Dowding's extensive bibliography showcases his profound and wide-ranging intellectual curiosity. His publications span critical fields such as public choice, which examines political decision-making using economic principles; public administration, focusing on the implementation of government policies; and public policy, analyzing the creation and impact of governmental actions. Beyond these, his work delves into British politics, offering insights into a specific national context; comparative politics, drawing parallels and contrasts between political systems; and urban political economy, exploring the interplay of economic forces and political structures in cities. He is also a significant voice in positive political theory, which seeks to explain political phenomena as they are, and normative political philosophy, which grapples with fundamental questions about how political systems *should* be structured and what constitutes a just society.

A defining characteristic of his scholarly approach is its foundation in social and rational choice theories. These theoretical frameworks provide a robust lens through which he analyzes complex political behaviors and institutional designs, emphasizing individual preferences and strategic interactions, thereby offering deeper explanations for political outcomes.

Beyond his prolific writing and teaching, Professor Dowding also made a considerable impact through his editorial leadership. He served as the esteemed editor of the Journal of Theoretical Politics (published by Sage) for an impressive sixteen years, from 1996 to 2012. This long tenure allowed him to significantly shape the direction of theoretical political science, fostering new research and contributing to the rigorous standards of academic publication.

Frequently Asked Questions about Professor Keith Martin Dowding

What is Professor Keith Martin Dowding's current academic position?

He holds the prestigious title of Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Political Philosophy at the School of Politics and International Relations, within the Research School of Social Sciences at the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, Australia.

When did he join the Australian National University (ANU)?

Professor Dowding made the transition to the Australian National University in 2007, relocating from the renowned London School of Economics (LSE) in the UK.

What are his primary areas of research and publication?

His research interests are remarkably broad and influential, encompassing public choice, public administration, public policy, British politics, comparative politics, urban political economy, positive political theory, and normative political philosophy.

Which theoretical frameworks inform his scholarly work?

His extensive body of work is deeply informed by both social choice theory and rational choice theory, providing a foundational and analytical approach to his studies of political phenomena.

Did Professor Dowding hold any significant editorial roles?

Yes, he served as the editor of the highly regarded Journal of Theoretical Politics (published by Sage) for an extended period, from 1996 to 2012.