Observing Ourselves: Essays in Social Research

This highly regarded short book addresses fundamental philosophical and methodological issues involved in the scientific study of human beings. Observing Ourselves is not really a textbook; rather, it is a book of somewhat unconnected essays. It will not teach the reader how to do social research, but it will support the reader in thinking powerfully about the subject. No pat answers are provided, nor does the author try to influence the opinions of his readers. Rather, he identifies some fascinating questions that lie near the heart of one’s ability to know anything about oneself scientifically. The issues raised will engage readers and help them discover what it takes for human beings to study human beings.