Abstract
Scientific results of empirical research depend on the methods used. The selection of empirical methods by scientists is not solely determined by the subject of research or by theory. Social and historical (in our investigation national) conditions also affect the application of methods. This hypothesis has been corroborated with the help of journals in psychology, psychiatry, and sociology from different countries. The national impact on method preference varies among these disciplines. Conclusions are drawn concerning the generalizability of empirical results beyond disciplines and beyond countries.
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Lange, L. Interactions between disciplines and countries in methodical preferences for empirical research. Scientometrics 10, 281–295 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016775
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02016775