Unvereinbare Gegensätze? Eine Diskussion zur Integration quantitativ-qualitativer Ergebnisse

Abstract

The advantages of combining qualitative and quantitative research methods was already advocated by Max Weber. In spite of his early start on this subject, German sociologists following in Weber's footsteps have been reluctant in exploiting the potential of combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Such a combination promises two major advantages: mutual validation of research results and expanded realms of interpretation due to the integration of explorative and confirmative purposes. In this paper the strengths and weaknesses of qualitative and quantitative methods are being reviewed and the mutual benefits of combining the two approaches explained. Based on empirical studies in which such an integration was pursued the potential gain in explanatory power will be documented and possible conditions determined under which these gains can be expected. At the end the potential for meta-analysis in sociology will be addressed.