3 From concept to empirical study. Data set and measurement
Theoretical and conceptual considerations are a necessary step en route to the scholarly analysis
of real conflicts. A second methodological step is also necessary, namely to operationalize and
measure the research concept.
In this regard, we rely on data material from the “Conflict Information System” (CONIS) database
established at Heidelberg University’s Institut für Politische Wissenschaft. CONIS evaluates information
only from news sources that are publicly accessible, assesses it qualitatively, and