A History of Sociological Research Methods in America, 19201960 [Paperback]

A history of US sociological research, questioning conventional theories with new data.This is the first book on the general history of US sociological research methods. It provides systematic archival, documentary and interview data which question conventional views, showing that the extensive work done on sociological theory gives only a partial picture of the history of sociology. Research practice is affected by many other factors. This detailed study develops our understanding both of the history of social thought, and the settings in which social research is produced, raising wider issues of method in the history of ideas.This is the first book on the general history of US sociological research methods. It provides systematic archival, documentary and interview data which question conventional views, showing that the extensive work done on sociological theory gives only a partial picture of the history of sociology. Research practice is affected by many other factors. This detailed study develops our understanding both of the history of social thought, and the settings in which social research is produced, raising wider issues of method in the history of ideas.This is the first book on the general history of U.S. sociological research methods. It provides systematic archival, documentary and interview data that question conventional views, showing that the extensive work done on sociological theory gives only a partial picture of the history of sociology. Research practice is affected by many other factors. This detailed study develops our understanding both of the history of social thought, and the settings in which social research is produced, raising wider issues of method in the history of ideas.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. There is much to like in this book. Jennifer Plals‚