The Fundamentals of Social Research

Description

This textbook provides an introduction to the scientific study of sociology and other social sciences. It offers the basic tools necessary for readers to become both critical consumers and beginning producers of scientific research on society. The authors present an integrated approach to research design and empirical analyses in which researchers can develop and test causal theories. They use examples from social science research that students will find engaging and inspiring and that will help them to understand key concepts. The book makes technical materials accessible to students who might otherwise be intimidated by mathematical examples. This new text, with the addition of sociologist Steven A. Tuch to the author team, follows the successful format, approach, and pedagogical features in Paul M. Kellstedt and Guy D. Whitten's bestselling text, The Fundamentals of Political Science Research, now in its third edition. Workbooks in Stata, SPSS, and R, three of the most popular statistical analysis programs, are available as separate purchases to accompany this textbook, enabling students to connect the lessons of this book to hands-on applications of the software.

Paul M. Kellstedt is a professor of political science at Texas A&M University. Guy D. Whitten is a professor of political science and Director of the European Union Center at Texas A&M University. Steven A. Tuch is a professor of sociology and public policy and public administration at George Washington University.

'Kellstedt, Whitten, and Tuch provide an accessible, sophisticated text. With well-chosen examples, they show why a full understanding of research design, theory construction, and causal inference is essential for effective use of our modern toolkit of data analysis techniques.' Stephen L. Morgan, Johns Hopkins University 'A comprehensive and well-written introduction to the techniques and logic of social research. The logic and application of a wide range of methodological techniques are explained eloquently and clearly, and the examples used cut across social science disciplines. This book should be widely used in methods courses across the social sciences.' George Wilson, University of Miami 'This valuable textbook is unique for two reasons: first, it seamlessly integrates theory, research design, and data analysis, providing students with the foundation required to develop empirically grounded research projects that can make theoretical progress in social science. Second, it is accessible and engaging, drawing students in and showing them how stimulating and exciting social research can be.' Michael Hughes, Virginia Tech