A Telescope on Society: Survey Research & Social Science at the University of Michigan and Beyond

At the celebration of its 50th anniversary in 1997, the University of Michigan's Institute for Social Research first named its long-time and future mission to conduct "social science in the public interest." This volume brings into sharp focus the passion for deep inquiry, the quest for ever more precise measurement, and the legacy of social consciousness and scientific responsibility that characterizes the work conducted at ISR. It describes a collective, collaborative, and interdisciplinary expertise that has allowed and motivated ISR research scientists to make their intellectual work useful and accessible to others. The volume begins with a look at the development and contribution of survey research and survey methodology. Subsequent chapters discuss survey research on political behavior and systems, economics and behavior, organizations, physical and mental health, fertility, substance use, aging, and race and racial attitudes.