The Use and Abuse of Social Science

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Expectations about the use of social science research vary from the near euphoric to the downright cynical. The Use and Abuse of Social Science looks at the outcomes of such research in order to give a realistic appraisal of what our expectations should be. The authors describe a number of successful and unsuccessful applications of social science research and highlight some outright abuses. Within a realistic framework, they provide impressive arguments and supporting data to show that social science research can lead to important developments in policy and to changes in practice. Their evidence also demonstrates that there are many equally valid research philosophies and methods. The authors come from a wide variety of disciplines, including systems science, economics, criminology, sociology, political science, organizational studies, psychology and government administration. Their experience covers the United States, France, Germany, Great Britain, Sweden, the Netherlands and Australia.