[Dino Christenson] Uncovering the Network Strategies of Interest Groups

Wednesdays @Hariri / Meet Our Fellows

Uncovering the Network Strategies of Interest Groups

Dino Christenson

Junior Faculty Fellow, Hariri Institute for Computing
Assistant Professor and Director of Advanced Programs, Department of Political Science
Boston University

Abstract: Interest groups use a variety of techniques to influence the political process, among which coalition strategies are dominant. However, these coalitions are difficult to observe. Interest groups are hesitant to openly discuss their coalition partners for a variety of reasons and there exists no legal requirement to document them which might lead to a comprehensive database of their networks. Utilizing a network measure of interest group coalitions based on cosigner status to United States Supreme Court amicus curiae, or friend of the court briefs, we begin to illuminate the central players and overall characteristics of this dynamic and secretive network from the 1930s to present-day. The project brings a new theoretical perspective to the study of interest groups by applying network theory and statistics. The talk will discuss a few papers stemming from the project and present various opportunities and hypotheses for further research. Additional information on the project is available at http://amicinetworks.com/

Bio: Dino P. Christenson (PhD, Ohio State University; BA, University of Michigan) is an Assistant Professor and the Director of Advanced Programs in the Department of Political Science.  He studies American political behavior and quantitative methods with a focus on the context in which individuals and organizations receive and react to political information.  Prior to graduate school he worked as a lobbyist and as a policy analyst on various campaigns.