Requirements for Inductive Analysis (From Collection and Interpretation of Data From Hidden Populations, P 44-58, 1990, Elizabeth Y Lambert, ed. -- See NCJ-128609)

• NCJ Number: 128613
• Author(s): P Adler
• Date Published: 1990
• Length: 15 pages
• Sale Source: Superintendent of Documents, GPO; National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Survey
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: NIDA Research Monograph 98

Annotation

As sociological ethnography experiences a renaissance, researchers must re-examine the requirements and presumptions associated with inductive analysis. Though more often associated with philosophy rather than methodology, induction was developed in strict accordance with the canons and principles of scientific methods.

Abstract

The common theme that runs through the various accepted definitions of induction is that induction must begin with a hypothesis to be tested. The strength of the method lies in its capability to test many alternatives and evolve dynamically as opposing or corroborating evidence appears. The first systematic statements of analytic induction in the social sciences were made in the late 1920's and early 1930's. Over the years, many sociologists have misunderstood and misused the concept, applying the term induction to all forms of qualitative or participant-observation research. The steps required to perform analytic induction, and the advantages and disadvantages associated with the process are outlined in this article. The author calls upon ethnographers to again use inductive analysis in its original form. 56 references