Feminist methodologies for critical researchers : bridging differences

This brief text on social research methodology teaches students of sociology and related disciplines how standard methods can be adapted toward critical ends by thinking more carefully about the links between epistemology and methodology. Written in a clear, balanced fashion, Joey Sprague’s treatment of qualitative and quantitative methods shows that all can be used effectively by progressive researchers. She describes and evaluates a wide array of methodological options for the production of knowledge. Unique to this volume, Sprague avoids the stereotype that tarnishes all quantitative research as inherently anti-feminist, showing- through an analysis of model studies- how surveys and experimental designs are being used by critical scholars. She traces how the social organization of the academy has produced a bias against feminist methodology and proposes a program to overcome these limitations. Sprague’s book will be of value to scholars of many disciplines, and a essential text or supplement for methods classes.