A History of Sociological Research Methods in America, 1920–1960

A history of US sociological research, questioning conventional theories with new data.

Jennifer Platt (Author)

9780521441735, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 23 February 1996

350 pages, 5 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.4 cm, 0.68 kg

' … this book is not only a study of the history of sociological research methods in America, but it is an excellent piece of sociological research itself.' Shulamit Reinharz, Journal for the History of the Behavioral Sciences 'This is an outstanding contribution to our understanding of what really went on in US universities at a key point in the development of sociology and an almighty sideswipe at a great deal of the discipline's subordination to theorists from within and without the subject. Sociologists should not just order this book for the library and leave it to gather dust. Buy it, study it and reflect on the state of their subject.' Frank Webster, The Times Higher Education Supplement

This is the first book on the general history of US sociological research. It provides systematic archival, documentary, and interview data which question conventional views on research methods, developing our understanding of both the history of social thought, and the settings in which social research is produced.

1. Introduction
2. Writing on method
3. Scientism
4. Theory and practice
5. Funding and research methods
6. Social structures of academic life
7. Reputation, exemplars and origin myths
8. Conclusion
Appendix.

Subject Areas: History of ideas [JFCX]