This book examines the historical development and methodological evolution of social surveys between 1880 and 1940. Martin I. A. Bulmer, a noted sociologist, draws upon extensive archival research and primary source materials to trace the origins and transformations of this crucial research tool. The work argues that the social survey, far from being a static technique, was a dynamic instrument shaped by intellectual currents, social concerns, and the practical challenges of data collection in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

This book is recognized as a significant scholarly contribution to the history of social science research. It is often cited for its detailed examination of the formative period of social surveys, highlighting the methodological innovations and theoretical underpinnings of the era. The work is considered essential reading for students and researchers interested in the historical development of sociology, social policy, and quantitative research methods.