Provides an introduction to major philosophical concepts, issues and debates raised by the social sciences. This book examines key conceptual and methodological questions and illustrates how they shape the practice of research, the interpretation of findings and theory formulation in such disciplines as economics, political science and psychology.

This accessible, comprehensive introduction is ideal for use on undergraduate courses, examining key conceptual and methodological questions, supplemented by useful pedagogical features.>

"Bishop's book is a very well executed textbook, perfectly suited for undergraduate courses or, if supplemented with additional material, graduate courses. It is geared towards students all the way through-i.e., rather than being a textbook written to impress one's colleagues! There are useful 'further study' questions at the end of each chapter that are both perfect for self-study and for use by instructors (to base tutorials around, for example). Recommended readings, pitched at the right level, also follow each chapter...It describes itself as 'the definitive companion', and I think it rally is...I shall certainly use Bishop's book for courses on the philosophy of social sciences." -Dean Rickles, Philosophy in Review