【简介】
   
    The 'What is？' Research Methods series provides   authoritative introductions to a range of research methods which are at the   forefront of developments in the social sciences.
    Each volume sets out the key elements of the   particular method and features examples of its application, drawing on a   consistent structure across the whole series. Written in an accessible style   by leading experts in the field, this series is an innovative pedagogical and   research resource.
   
    This book introduces the non-specialist reader   to the principal ideas, nature and purpose of social network analysis. Social   networks operate on many levels, from families up to the level of nations,   and play a critical role in determining the way problems are solved,   organizations are run, and the degree to which individuals achieve their   goals. Social network theory maps these relationships between individual   actors. Though relatively new on the scene it has become hugely influential   across the social sciences.
   
    Assuming no prior knowledge of quantitative   sociology, this book presents the key ideas in context through examples and   illustrations. Using a structured approach to understanding work in this   area, John Scott signposts further reading and online sources so readers can   develop their knowledge and skills to become practitioners of this research   method. A series of Frequently Asked Questions takes the reader through the   main objections raised against social network analysis and answers the   various queries that will come up once the reader has worked his/ her way   through the book.
   
    【出版说明】
   
    近年来，上海外语教育出版社陆续策划推出了“外语学术普及系列”“外国语言文学知名学者讲座系列·语言学十讲”等面向入门级读者的普及性丛书，邀请学界知名专家对外国文学和语言学研究领域的基本问题进行简明扼要的梳理、归纳和介绍，受到了广大读者的一致好评，获得了良好的社会效益。
   
    鉴于此，上海外语教育出版社又从布鲁姆斯伯里（   Bloomsbury）出版集团精选引进了一套普及性学术丛书“‘什么是’研究方法系列”，深入浅出地介绍社会科学中的常用研究方法和问题。丛书主题涉及社交网络分析、在线研究、话语分析、日记法、质性研究、质性访谈、质性研究伦理、定量纵向数据分析等领域。每一分册均以“什么是……”命名，围绕一个主题，梳理该领域发展概况，阐释关键术语，介绍前沿成果或通过案例分析展示该研究方法的实际应用情况，并通过推荐书目或参考书目为读者延伸阅读提供指导。各分册作者均为相关领域的资深研究者，思路清晰，言简意赅。
   
    相信本丛书的出版能够满足对社会科学研究感兴趣的读者的阅读需求，引领他们进入社会科学研究的学术园地。
   
    丛书个别分册提及一些研究网站，用于辅助论述。编辑已对网站内容进行必要的核查。考虑到网站内容实时更新，仍请读者在查阅时注意甄别。    

【目录】
   
    List of Figures
   
    Series foreword
   
    1 Introduction
   
    2 History of social network analysis
   
    3 Key concepts and measures
   
    4 Applications of network analysis
   
    5 Criticisms and frequently asked questions
   
    6 Software for social network analysis
   
    Bibliography
   
    Index