Triangulation (social science)

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In the social sciences, triangulation is often used to indicate that more than one method is used in a study with a view to double (or triple) checking results. This is also called "cross examination". The idea is that one can be more confident with a result if different methods lead to the same result.

Another definition of "triangulation" which is commonly used in the social sciences is the description of when a person, either intentionally or unintentionally pits two others against each other to achieve a desired result or outcome. By manipulating the relationship of two other people in one's life, you are able to "triangulate" and take advantage of the different characteristics of those you are in relationship with, or to gain advantage in a situation without clear and open communication between the three or more parties involved. When just two other people are involved, this can also include what is called "splitting".

By extension, "triangulation" has been used to describe a perceived political strategy pursued successfully by U.S. President Bill Clinton and British Prime Minister Tony Blair (and unsuccessfully by Australian Labor leader Mark Latham). In these terms, it could be summarised as akin to the Hegelian theory of synthesis in which apparently contradictory elements of the Left and the Right are reconciled. For instance, government versus the market, rights versus responsibilities, are synthesised into a theoretically homogeneous whole. This has been branded by Blair the "Third Way" (also known as "New Labour"). In political circles, however, it has become a "fuzzword" similar to "thinking outside the square".

Triangulation is also used in instances where goods and services are traded from one nation to another, using an intermediate nation. Often associated with arms sales where the exporting nation is unable to sell directly to the importing nation and thus uses a third agent to act as an intermediatary. (see Baylis and Smith; Globalisation of World Politics).