Fuzzy-Set Social Science

Ragin, Charles C.

ISBN 10: 0226702774 / ISBN 13: 9780226702773

Verlag: University of Chicago Press, 2000

Pages can have notes/highlighting. Spine may show signs of wear. ~ ThriftBooks: Read More, Spend Less 1.15. Bestandsnummer des Verkäufers G0226702774I3N00

Inhaltsangabe:

In this innovative approach to the practice of social science, Charles Ragin explores the use of fuzzy sets to bridge the divide between quantitative and qualitative methods. Paradoxically, the fuzzy set is a powerful tool because it replaces an unwieldy, "fuzzy" instrument—the variable, which establishes only the positions of cases relative to each other, with a precise one—degree of membership in a well-defined set.

Ragin argues that fuzzy sets allow a far richer dialogue between ideas and evidence in social research than previously possible. They let quantitative researchers abandon "homogenizing assumptions" about cases and causes, they extend diversity-oriented research strategies, and they provide a powerful connection between theory and data analysis. Most important, fuzzy sets can be carefully tailored to fit evolving theoretical concepts, sharpening quantitative tools with in-depth knowledge gained through qualitative, case-oriented inquiry. This book will revolutionize research methods not only in sociology, political science, and anthropology but in any field of inquiry dealing with complex patterns of causation.

Über die Autorin bzw. den Autor:

Charles Ragin is professor of sociology and political science at the University of Arizona. He is the author ofRedesigning Social Inquiry:Fuzzy-Sets and Beyond and The Comparative Method: Moving Beyond Qualitative and Quantitative Strategies.

Bibliografische Details

Titel: Fuzzy-Set Social Science
Verlag: University of Chicago Press
Erscheinungsdatum: 2000
Einband: Paperback
Zustand: Good
Zustand des Schutzumschlags: No Jacket