This book should be of interest to students of social theory, applied soci ology, sociology of knowledge.

Realistic Evaluation shows how programme evaluation needs to be, and can be, bettered. It presents a profound yet highly readable critique of current evaluation practice, and introduces a 'manifesto' and 'handbook' for a fresh approach.

Author Ray Pawson presents a devastating critique of the dominant approach to systematic review - namely the 'meta-analytic' approach as sponsored by the Cochrane and Campbell collaborations. In its place is commended an approach that he terms 'realist synthesis'. On this vision, the real purpose of systematic review is better to understand program theory, so that policies can be properly targeted and developed to counter an ever-changing landscape of social problems. The book will be essential reading for all those who loved (or loathed) the arguments developed in Realistic Evaluation (Sage,...