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.
'… this study bears the closest examination for several reasons. First, it is a model of careful construction and meticulous research. Second, it makes us reconsider our perceptions of a period of sociology when America dominated the world. And third, and most important, is that it forces us to think critically about the discipline.' Frank Webster, The Times Higher Education Supplement
Innehållsförteckning
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.