Observing Ourselves: Essays in Social Research

by Earl R. Babbie

Now available from Waveland Press, this highly regarded short book addresses fundamental philosophical and methodological issues involved in the scientific study of human beings. Observing Ourselves is not really a textbook; rather, it is a book of somewhat unconnected essays. It will not teach the reader how to do social research, but it will support the reader in thinking powerfully about the subject. No pat answers are provided, nor does the author try to influence the opinions of his readers. Rather, he identifies some fascinating questions that lie near the heart of one's ability to know anything about oneself scientifically. The issues raised will engage readers and help them discover what it takes for human beings to study human beings.

189 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 1998

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal.

[Abigail Cargo]

better than a textbook. Babbie's examples on the subtleties and applications of concepts (like value-free sociology) make the theories of Weber, Durkheim, and other greats more accessible. Sociology is constantly applicable!!