I'm currently musing over a research topic to submit for my PhD proposal. The way i want to look at my topic evidently hasn't been done before at all. I know the whole point of a PhD is to contribute something new or add a new slant on something but I'm struggling to find an angle that doesn't take me down the consultant's 'feasibility study' path. I'm worried that as i cannot pick a case study to look at, i won't be able to do it. Any thoughts appreciated!

If you can't find an example to study in the real world then you'll either have to create a trial or a model to help you investigate your theory.

How would one do this with a social science subject like development studies? I can understand creating a trial/model in the lab or on a computer, but in my context? I guess i could take bits from various previous studies but does that not then end up like the 'consultant's study' that i want to avoid? Forgive my ignorance...

If your ideas do not fit a model currently in practice and you don't want to present a feasibility study then you may be left with no way to progress your research. Every new idea needs a starting point. Is there a system outside of the area of development studies which is analogous to the case study you're looking for?

What you really need to do is discuss your ideas with academics in development studies who might be interested in your ideas. They may well be able to find a way to help you shape your ideas into a viable PhD project.

Matthew, in continuation of the previous advice: Have you chosen potential supervisors at the universities where you are going to apply to? It's a good idea to write to them and ask for their advice. I am sure some of them will be happy to help you. Also you could contact your former project supervisor or professors at your former university.