4. Conclusion
In this paper I have argued the case for taking account of empirical research in doing normative political philosophy. Above all, normative beliefs people here and now are important data which every political theory ought to appreciate This is not only for reasons of feasibility but also because of quite basic consti- tutive issues of justification. It does not mean, however, to blindly follow those findings. Indeed, it calls for a very close inspection of the current methods of gaining these data. This is a matter concerning the methodology of social science research, which is being performed in support of political philosophy. I have m rely hinted at some pitfalls of doing this kind of research if it is supposed to contribute to the debate about normative political problems. In addition, there is the general methodological issue of how to include empirical findings into the construction of political theories. I believe that this is a question that has only just begun to being discussed. My paper is a contribution to this vital methodo- logical debate, which is also a debate about the nature of political theory. I have taken a particular stance in favour of including empirical research, but I'm sure that others disagree. Their objections will be welcome contributions in keeping political philosophy alive.