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Abstract

From the perspective of an economist in a private basic and applied research firm, this article examines the evolving structure of social science research firms that contribute to the social science theoretical and empirical literature on measuring the nation's well-being. A distinction is made between the terms consultant and research firm in the context of historical and contemporary research practices. Visible examples and possible implications of new structural arrangements within the research industry are provided, including ethical standards. It is argued that social science research—no longer conducted in the monastic tradition—is dynamic and competitive, yielding significant contributions to our knowledge about basic and applied research techniques.

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The Changing Structure of the Social Science Research Industry and some Implications for Practice

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