The Evolution of Health Services Research

Odin W. Anderson shares valuable lessons he has learned in his 45-year career devoted to social sciences research. Drawing on his broad personal experience and numerous interviews with colleagues, Anderson shows how the field of social sciences research has developed over the past half-century and demonstrates what it takes to succeed in the field. The author emphasizes that expertise in the technology of research, sampling, and statistical methods is not enough; researchers must also understand how to apply such technology in the social and political context in which they operate. He reveals that, to maintain a long and successful career, researchers must develop long-term sources of funding, acquire a deep understanding of the interest groups affected, and anticipate the potential for controversy that may attend the publication of findings.
 
Odin W. Anderson shares valuable lessons he has learned in his 45-year career devoted to social sciences research. Drawing on his broad personal experience and numerous interviews with colleagues, Anderson shows how the field of social sciences research has developed over the past half-century and demonstrates what it takes to succeed in the field. The author emphasizes that expertise in the technology of research, sampling, and statistical methods is not enough; researchers must also understand how to apply such technology in the social and political context in which they operate. He reveals that, to maintain a long and successful career, researchers must develop long-term sources of funding, acquire a deep understanding of the interest groups affected, and anticipate the potential for controversy that may attend the publication of findings.