Barry Ames

Dr. Barry Ames is a thought leader in the field of political science, serving as the Andrew Mellon Professor Emeritus at the Department of Political Science at the University of Pittsburgh. With a distinguished career dedicated to the study and teaching of political systems, Dr. Ames specializes in quantitative and formal analysis within Latin American political science and political development. His expertise extends across a range of research interests, including comparative politics, legislative behavior, electoral systems, and political economy. Throughout his career, Dr. Ames has made significant contributions to the understanding of political dynamics in Latin America. His work often explores the intricate relationships between political institutions and behavior, providing insights into how electoral systems and legislative processes shape political outcomes. Dr. Ames is particularly renowned for his research on legislative behavior and the political economy, areas in which he has published extensively. One of Dr. Ames' notable publications is "Persuasive Peers: Social Communication and Voting in Latin America," co-authored with Andy Baker and Lucio Renno. This work exemplifies his commitment to advancing knowledge on how social interactions influence voting behavior in Latin American contexts. His research has been instrumental in shedding light on the complexities of political communication and its impact on electoral outcomes. In addition to his research, Dr. Ames is a dedicated educator, teaching courses that equip students with the analytical tools necessary to understand and engage with political systems. His courses on quantitative and formal analysis are highly regarded for their rigor and relevance, preparing students to tackle complex political challenges with a robust methodological foundation. Dr. Ames' contributions to the field of political science have earned him recognition as a leading scholar in his areas of expertise. His work continues to influence both academic discourse and practical approaches to understanding political phenomena in Latin America and beyond.