On the Empirical Study of Atrocity Crimes

Abstract This chapter discusses research methods for atrocity crimes. Mass atrocity crimes, the context in which they are committed, and their aftermath generate a constellation of factors in which methodologies may differ from standard criminological or even social-science methods and techniques. Differences emerge, first, because atrocity crimes are so deadly: we find many epidemiological and public health methods employed to estimate the prevalence of this type of crime. Second, we see differences because atrocity crimes occur generally against the backdrop of a conflict in which also government may be involved, so that vital statistical data are compromised or lacking. Third, data collection in situations of conflict may be dangerous and therefore compromised methodologically, in various ways. Last, atrocity crimes are rare occurrences in unique and idiosyncratic constellations of conflict and violence, in which it is hard to make causal inference according to regular social-science methodological standards.