Quantitative Methods for Historians: A Guide to Research, Data, and Statistics (Paperback)

by Konrad H. Jarausch (Author) "Even after one generation of use, quantitative methods are still controversial in historical research and writing..." (more)
Key Phrases: historical computing, quantitative historians, new political history, Fort Moultrie, New England, United States (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
Quantitative historians have been waiting for a long time for a book such as this.

Walter D. Kamphoefner, Texas A&M University

Product Description
The pioneering texts in quantitative history were written over two decades ago, but as a command of methodological context, computer experience, and statistical literacy have become increasingly important to the study of history, the need for an introductory text addressing these matters has increased. Quantitative Methods for Historians is a theoretical and practical guide for the application of quantitative analysis in historical research. It is designed for students of history and related disciplines who are curious about the possibilities of quantification and want to learn more about its recent development.

Integrating the use of the statistical packages SAS and SPSS with the quantitative method, the authors discuss techniques for defining a problem, proceed to the building of a data set and the use of statistical methods, and conclude with the interpretation of results. The data set section concentrates on the basics of formalized research, discussing the coding process and the more complicated problems of data transformation and linkage. The statistical parts systematically build upon traditional fundamentals and introduce new analytical techniques for qualitative variables.

Intended as a working introduction to quantitative methods, this guide also provides additional information on advanced statistical techniques and discusses questions of historical computing, reflecting critically on the proper role of quantitative methods.

Product Details

• Paperback: 266 pages
• Publisher: The University of North Carolina Press (March 26, 1991)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0807843091
• ISBN-13: 978-0807843093
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.1 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: No customer reviews yet. Be the first.
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,124,537 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)