Blackwell Reference Online

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There are at least three distinct meanings of the term “meta-analysis” in social science. It can be used to indicate (1) a literature review of a body of empirical findings, especially in psychology; (2) a summary of replication research on a specific topic; or (3) a theoretical or methodological analysis of the complex philosophical problems associated with commonalities in scientific approaches. The first usage is common in psychology while the second is often used in physical science. Such reflexivity is predicated on an inductive approach. Involved in the third usage is, for example, Ritzer's (1975a, b) emphasis on the importance of paradigmatic “metatheory.” His schema for analyzing sociological theory involves a “meta-meta-analysis” of three kinds of metatheory: (1) a means for deeper understanding ; (2) a prelude to theory construction; and (3) a source of overarching perspectives ( Ritzer & Goodman 2004 : A-1 to A-22). All calls for “reflexive sociology” (e.g., Bourdieu & Wacquant 1992 ) could be considered meta-analyses. A meta-analysis of methodological exemplars for different paradigms is often viewed as part and parcel of a metatheory, although there is a meta-method, as well. The second-order analysis of any theoretical formulation involves an attempt to clarify the relationship between that theory and other theories. Therefore, it is important to examine ... log in or subscribe to read full text