This is a book urgently needed by the social and behavioral sciences; in fact, it should be required reading for anyone seriously studying its methods and methodologies. To have gathered, in a single volume, the prominent figures, the difficult problems and the imperfect solutions that plague the different types of research is a true achievement. The purpose of qualitative research was to address many of these ills, but, as clearly pointed out by Packer, the hidden dualism in this type of research has prevented us from becoming aware of its potential. This has led us to ignore or not comprehend important modes of research and vital ways of life. With this acute analysis, Packer redefines qualitative research by explaining new ways of studying life and lifestyles through an elegant, clear and accessible prose” Brent D. Slife, Brigham Young University, US. In this critical mapping of the history of qualitative research, Martin Packer majestically covers a huge epistemological area. By dissecting dualistic contradictions, he challenges us to develop an interest in the radical potential of a post-modern focus and to delight in the emerging, co-constituted and hermeneutical nature of the project. This extraordinary text is at the same time academic and accessible while it offers a vision of a mode of research that is moral, emancipatory and transformative.” Linda Finlay, Open University, UK.