Covert Research The Art, Politics and Ethics of Undercover Fieldwork, David Calvey

Undercover research is an emotive and controversial field often equated with deception and transgression. Using classic examples and contemporary case studies this book challenges covert research’s dispersed place within the social sciences and rehabilitates its reputation as a powerful research method.

Drawing in part on his own undercover research into the night-time economy of bouncers, the author explores the roots and evolution of covert research; his deft treatment of the fear and fascination within furtive fieldwork is grounded in the practicality of the methods and tools needed to conduct quality research in the field.

Packed with learning-by-example tips, this book shows that with critical imagination and proper ethical foundations, covert research could be a great addition to your methodological toolkit.

What is covert research? Early roots of covert research Debates about covert research The classic exemplars in covert research Doing covert research in the social sciences A covert case study of bouncers in the Manchester night-time economy A revival in covert research Conclusions