ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the ways in which researchers who are engaged in empirical research can define and collect data about key social variables. It seeks to bridge the gulf which divides the theoretical and empirical realms, particularly in sociology, by analysing key concepts and discussing how they can be studied empirically. The book draws specific attention to the ways in which the variable influences the research process. It contributes to theoretical developments as well as reviewing empirical work. The book provides a detailed review of sources in their respective areas, and highlights sources that are useful in a particular sub-field within the area under review. It helps to promote research and to close the gap between the concepts developed by theorists and the variables and indicators developed by researchers.
