ABSTRACT

Originally published in 1989, The Dilemma of Qualitative Method is a stimulating guide to the discussion of qualitative versus quantitative approaches to social research, originated in nineteenth-century debates about the relationship between the methods of history and natural science. One of the key theorists in this area was Chicago sociologist Herbert Blumer. The book analyses the historical context of the dispute and provides a detailed account and systematic analysis Blumer’s methodological writings including his doctoral thesis. The strategies for qualitative research advocated by Blumer within the Chicago tradition are reviewed and assessed.

chapter |8 pages

Introduction

chapter Two|22 pages

Pragmatism

chapter Three|26 pages

Chicago Sociology

chapter Six|18 pages

Blumer’s Concept of Science

chapter Seven|27 pages

Blumer’s Alternative: Naturalistic Research

chapter Eight|39 pages

An Assessment of Naturalistic Research