ABSTRACT
This chapter suggests that the sociologist should examine his problem from as many different methodological perspectives as possible. Many sociologists assume that their research methods are neutral "atheoretical tools" suitable for valid scientific use by any knowledgeable user. Despite the existence of public rules governing the enterprise called science, the values, definitions and ideologies of each scientist significantly determine the translation of rules of method into the scientific process. Triangulation, or the use of multiple methods, is a plan of action that will raise sociologists above the personalistic biases that stem from single methodologies. The chapter focuses on the inherent difficulties of generating valid sociological data. It also suggests that the resolutions to this difficulty are two-fold. First, sociologists must realize that their growth as a science is contingent on the recognition of these elements. Second, multiple strategies of triangulation are proposed as the preferred line of action.
