This brief, introductory book provides readers with a step-by-step guide to reading and understanding a social science research article. The author demonstrates the many strengths of social research, including its advantages over ordinary ways of knowing things, and, at the same time, points out that research is inevitably flawed. Rather than naively assuming that good research simply produces "The Truth" or cynically asserting that research is hopelessly biased and futile, this book instills in readers a critical perspective-one that appreciates the strengths and weaknesses of any piece of scholarship.
1. Social Research vs. Ordinary Ways of Knowing
2. What is a Journal Article?
3. Defining Key Terms
4. Literature Reviews
5. Measurement
6. Sampling
7. Analysis
8. Ethics
9. Politics
10. Why Read Journal Articles-And Think Critically about Them?