Understanding China through Big Data

<p>Chen He and Yan present a range of applications of multiple-source big data to core areas of contemporary sociology demonstrating how a theory-guided approach to macrosociology can help to understand social change in China especially where traditional approaches are limited by constrained and biased data.</p><p>In each chapter of the book the authors highlight an application of theory-guided macrosociology that has the potential to reinvigorate an ambitious open-minded and bold approach to sociological research. These include social stratification social networks medical care and online behaviours among many others. This research approach focuses on macro-level social process and phenomena by using quantitative models to statistically test for associations and causalities suggested by a clearly hypothesised social theory. By deploying theory-oriented macrosociology where it can best assure macro-level robustness and reliability big data applications can be more relevant to and guided by social theory. </p><p>An essential read for sociologists with an interest in quantitative and macro-scale research methods which also provides fascinating insights into Chinese society as a demonstration of the utility of its methodology.</p>