The Stark realities of reproducible statistically orientated sociological research: Some newer rules of the sociological method

Abstract

There is increasing concern that research is not transparent and that empirical results are often impossible to reproduce. Guidelines for undertaking reproducible research have been proposed in a number of academic areas (e.g. computational economics, psychology and medical research), however currently there are no guidelines for sociological research. This methodological paper provides guidance for undertaking reproducible statistically orientated sociological research. We provide an extended demonstration of the issues associated with reproducing results and undertaking transparent analyses. We draw on suitable concepts and techniques from open research, e-research and computing. We propose a set of Newer Rules of the Sociological Method, for undertaking transparent statistically orientated sociological research that supports reproducibility.