The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research

Presenting the state-of-the-art for the theory and practice of qualitative inquiry, this landmark Handbook has been a publishing phenomenon in the human sciences since it first published in 1994. As with earlier editions, the Fourth Edition is virtually a new volume. Representing the best thinking from top scholars from around the world, the new edition continues the book’s tradition of synthesizing an existing literature, defining the present, and shaping the future of qualitative research. The editors and contributors address issues of social justice and examine how people’s struggles can inform public issues and in turn be transformed into social policy. Their writings are underpinned by a critical framework, and they are committed to addressing issues of inequality. As with previous editions, their aim is to show how the practices of qualitative research can effect change in the world in positive ways.

Customer Reviews:

reviews 1 yr or older than 4th ed.; publisher says: virtually new volume

By student for life - July 13, 2011

Caution, this is not a review of the 4th edition per se but a comment on Amazon's habitual lumping reviews from any edition of a title into one and the same.

Here is a quote from the text under Product Description: "As with earlier editions, the Fourth Edition is virtually a new volume."

The most helpful viewpoint is even older, probably for the 2nd edition based on the posted date, August 22nd, 2004.

As with other compendiums of articles from cutting edge pioneers in a field, an older edition may have the material you want or may not. Examine carefully the table of contents of whichever edition you decide to purchase. Sometimes articles by the respective authors and on the respective topic may be just as readily available through electronic journals, assuming you are a grad student or working in higher ed.

Disappointing after 1st and 2nd edition

By Kathleen Fahy - January 12, 2013

I was so excited to order the latest edtion of the Handbook of Qualitative Research. Earlier version have been like a bible to me and my PhD students. This edition is less than half the size but about the same price so not good value for money. Futher, I went straight to action research and found that chapter which had previously been so strong now makes all kinds of assumptions and does not lay out the core basic knowledge that new researchers need. It is as if the authors are talking only to experts and they are the people least likely to need a book as good as Denzin and Lincoln can produce. I feel 'burned' and I'll be very wary of buying another edition.

erudite, comprehensive, provocative

By Peter - December 2, 2012

The 4th edition of this essential publication should provide plenty to debate in relation to the complex space of "qualitative research".
This publication provides a wealth of resources, philosophies, methods, and perspectives. A wonderful companion for those on their own research journeys.
Bravo