A social science which has become so remote from the society which pays for its upkeep is ultimately doomed, threatened less by repression than by intellectual contempt and financial neglect. This is the message of the authors of this book in this reassessment of the evolution and present state of British sociology. Their investigation analyses the discipline as a social institution, whose product is inexorably shaped by the everyday circumstances of its producers; it is the concrete outcome of people’s work, rather than a body of abstract ideas. Drawing upon their varied experience as teachers and researchers, they identify three major trends in contemporary sociology. First, that the discipline’s rapid expansion has led to a retreat from rigorous research into Utopian and introspective theorising. Second, that the concept of sociological research is being taught in a totally false way because of this, and encourages ‘research’ within a wholly academic environment. Third, that the current unpopularity of sociology with academics, prospective students and politicians is no coincidence, but a reflection of the conditions under which sociology is now produced and practised. In Sociology and Social Research the authors suggest substantial changes in sociological research, the way in which it is carried out and the conditions under which it is undertaken. Their book is a timely warning to fellow sociologists when the profession is under attack as a result of public expenditure cuts.

Michael Young is one of the key figures in British twentieth century history. Focusing on family, community and social change, he has cascaded ideas, in the process coining new words, like 'meritocracy'. He has also initiated or played a major role in creating new and well-known organisations. These include the Consumers' Association, the Open University, and the National and International Extension Colleges. In 1945 he drafted the Labour Party's successful election manifesto Let Us Face the Future : in 1965 he was the first Chairman of the new Social Science Research Council.

How to Find Out About The Social Sciences indicates the sources of information in the social sciences that are traditionally taught in social science faculties in universities. The book delineates the scope and nature of the different social sciences, explains the necessary education and training, and lists possible careers for those who take up the studies. The book also lists the possible sources of information such as organizations, libraries, books and other published material, and social administration. Lastly, it explains the significance of the different sources of information, what kind of information could be derived from them, and how they can be used to learn or teach in the social sciences. The text is for social scientists, professors, and researchers on the discipline and its many branches. It is also recommended for undergraduate and graduate students alike, as well as those who have taken a casual interest on the social sciences.

This collection of twenty original essays considers the relationship between social science research and government during the last 30 years in Britain and the United States especially the economic and social policies of Reagan and Thatcher governments. These essays will be useful to social science staff, graduate students and to policy-makers working inside government.