History by Numbers: An Introduction to Quantitative Approaches

by Pat Hudson, Mina Ishizu

Overview

History by Numbers stands alone as the only textbook on quantitative methods suitable for students of history encountering the field for the first time. It is an exceptional book—even the numerically challenged will find inspiration. Taking a problem-solving approach and using authentic historical data, it describes each method in turn, including its origin, purpose, usefulness, and associated pitfalls. The problems are developed gradually and with narrative skill, allowing readers to experience the moment of discovery for each of the interpretative outcomes. Quantitative methods are now essential for the modern historian, and this lively and readable text will prove an invaluable guide for anyone entering the discipline.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780340614686
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	08/26/2000
Series:	A Hodder Arnold Publication Series
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.10(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Pat Hudson is a well known economic historian and author of The Industrial Revolution.

Table of Contents

Foreword
1. The Prospects and Pitfalls of History by Numbers
2. The Origins and Nature of Quantitative Thinking
3. Arranging, Rearranging and Displaying Data
4. Summarising Data: Averages and Distributions
5. Time Series and Indices
6. Relationships Between Variables
7. Sampling and Significance Testing
8. Modelling History
9. Computing, the Internet and History
Glossary
Index

Editorial Reviews

"This book deserves to be read carefully and thoughtfully by all historians. The approach is sensible, in no way triumphalist, but it clearly demonstrates the need for, and value of, even a modest level of quantitative skill." --The Royal Economic Society

"A new, accessible text in this field is overdue. Hudson's book has the characteristic merits of her work: it is clear without over-simplifying, and it locates quantitative techniques within a properly historical framework of understanding." --Professor David Eastwood, Chief Executive of the Arts and Humanities Research Board at the University of East Anglia

"Critical where necessary and alive to the difficulties which its readers may experience." --English Historical Review

From the Publisher

Critical where necessary and alive to the difficulties which its readers may experience.

English Historical Review

A new, accessible text in this field is overdue. Hudson's book has the characteristic merits of her work: it is clear without over-simplifying, and it locates quantitative techniques within a properly historical framework of understanding.

Chief Executive of the Arts and Humanities Researc Professor David Eastwood

This book deserves to be read carefully and thoughtfully by all historians. The approach is sensible, in no way triumphalist, but it clearly demonstrates the need for, and value of, even a modest level of quantitative skill.

The Royal Economic Society