Evidence: On the Good Use of Data in Social Science

A Review

In his book "Evidence: On the Good Use of Data in Social Science," Howard S. Becker argues that social scientists should be more critical of the data they use and the methods they use to collect it. He argues that social scientists often rely too heavily on quantitative data and that this can lead to a distorted view of the social world. Becker also argues that social scientists should be more aware of the biases that can affect their research and that they should take steps to minimize these biases.

Becker's Arguments

Becker's arguments are based on his own experiences as a social scientist. He has conducted research on a variety of topics, including deviance, drug use, and medical sociology. In his research, Becker has found that quantitative data can be misleading and that it is important to supplement quantitative data with qualitative data. He has also found that social scientists are often influenced by their own biases and that these biases can affect their research findings.

The Importance of Evidence

Becker's book is an important contribution to the social sciences. He provides a much-needed critique of the way that social scientists use data and methods. Becker's arguments are persuasive and he provides a wealth of evidence to support his claims. This book is a must-read for any social scientist who is interested in conducting rigorous and ethical research.

Key Concepts

• Quantitative data: Data that can be measured and analyzed using statistical methods.
• Qualitative data: Data that cannot be measured and analyzed using statistical methods.
• Bias: A tendency to favor one thing over another.
• Validity: The extent to which a research study measures what it is intended to measure.
• Reliability: The extent to which a research study can be replicated.

Conclusion

Becker's book is a valuable resource for social scientists who are interested in conducting rigorous and ethical research. He provides a wealth of insights into the use of data and methods in social science research. Becker's arguments are persuasive and he provides a wealth of evidence to support his claims. This book is a must-read for any social scientist who is serious about conducting good research.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are a social scientist, you need to read this book. Becker's insights into the use of data and methods in social science research are invaluable. This book will help you to become a more critical consumer of research and to conduct more rigorous and ethical research yourself.

Here are a few reasons why you should read this book:

• Becker provides a much-needed critique of the way that social scientists use data and methods.
• Becker's arguments are persuasive and he provides a wealth of evidence to support his claims.
• This book is a must-read for any social scientist who is interested in conducting rigorous and ethical research.

Order Your Copy Today!

Don't wait any longer to order your copy of "Evidence: On the Good Use of Data in Social Science." This book is a valuable resource that you will refer to again and again.