Science indicators derived from databases : The case of the social sciences

Explores the social character of the different processes involved in the collection & processing of quantitative data or indicators derived from databases. As a social process taking place in systemic organizational structures, the genesis of such data cannot be reconstructed as sort of mechanical application of formal rules, but only as human &, as such, arbitrary action. As a consequence, the discussion of such data or indicators can no longer be subject to methodology alone, but requires support by sociology. 2 Figures, 7 References. Adapted from the source document.