Objectivity in Social Research

Gunnar Myrdal's new book is a major statement about the myth of objectivity in research and the important role that our biases actually play. Originally presented at the Wimmer Lectures at St. Vincent College, Latrobe, Pennsylvania, this book is addressed primarily to students and practitioners of the social sciences. Dr. Myrdal questions the existence of "scientific" objectivity and points to the many biases that permeate our approach to social problems. How can we deal with these biases, which form a major part of our heritage and education? Dr. Myrdal points to the genuine solutions as well as to the various forms of escapism often resorted to. Though brief, this is a major statement, the summation of a lifetime and a forthright attack on some dangerous and pervasive pretenses.