Geographic Information Systems for the Social Sciences takes a cutting-edge approach to integrating spatial concepts into the social sciences. It is written for both the practitioner and the academic. Specifically, it focuses upon the incorporation of a technology called GIS, (Geographic Information Systems) with social science analysis. GIS allows the user to broaden the scope of comparisons, contrasts, and most importantly, the inclusion of space and place into the study of social issues. The integration of spatial concepts into social science research is not new; however the use of GIS provides a means to effectively incorporate space and place in the study of social issues. GIS simultaneously enhances and extends these analysis techniques into new, innovative realms within the social sciences. We examine the important role that geographic context plays in the social sciences. This book is also unique and useful to people who desire to integrate GIS with qualitative research approaches.