TY  - JOUR
PY  - 1929//
TI  - Statistics in social research
JO  - American journal of sociology
A1  - Thomas, Dorothy Swaine
SP  - 1
EP  - 17
VL  - 35
IS  - 1
N2  - There has been an incomplete recognition of the function of statistical analysis as a tool for the sociologist. Although never giving the certainty that results from perfectly controlled experiment, it is a method which provides a basis for evaluating probable relationship objectively. The limitations of the method are due to the restrictions imposed by its underlying assumptions. The imperfections of existing sociological data are considered, with a detailed analysis of Social Aspects of the Business Cycle, as exemplifying the compromises inherent in statistical sociological investigations, as well as the value of the method as a tool. The interrelationship between statistical investigation and the case study is considered. The need for improving the original data of sociology before applying statistical analysis is emphasized.     Suicide<p />
LA  - en
SN  - 0002-9602
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1086/214915
ID  - ref1
ER  -