Putting Social Science to Work
The Ground between Theory and Use Explored through Case Studies in Organisations

The authors examine various issues in the use of theories, methods and findings in fourteen case studies in Britain and Germany.

Lisl Klein (Author), Ken Eason (Author)

9780521378482, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 18 February 2010

288 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.43 kg

In this book, first published in 1991, Lisl Klein and Ken Eason look at the various issues involved when attempts are made to make use of the theories, methods and findings of the social sciences in practical affairs. They consider how human and social considerations may be successfully integrated with technical and economic ones in the design and development of organisations and work. Their study is both empirical and theoretical. Its core is the examination of fourteen case studies from manufacturing and service organisations in Britain and Germany. The book concludes with a discussion of what contributes to a successful practice. Its findings will be invaluable to all social scientists interested in the application of their disciplines as well as to potential clients in the world of business and industry.

List of figures
Preface: why bother?
Acknowledgements
List of abbreviations
1. Introduction
Part I. Issues in Social Science Utilisation: 2. Issues of content: the use of knowledge and the dynamics of action
3. A framework for diagnosis
4. A practical profession
Part II. An Empirical Study of Social Science Utilisation: 5. The research programme
6. Cases in organisational structure and policy
7. Cases in technical systems development
8. Cases in behavioural change/problem-solving for specific groups
9. Cases in behavioural change/development for management
10. The content and process of social science utilisation
11. What supports and hinders social science utilisation
12. Five practitioners
13. The work of the Commission for Economic and Social Change in Germany
Part III. Discussion: 14. A collaborative venture
15. Elements of practice
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Sociology & anthropology [JH]