Theory and Empirics in Qualitative Geographic Research - Essay Example

Statistics: Theory and Empirics in Qualitative Geographic Research The book “Policing Space: Territoriality and the Los Angeles Police Department” is authored by Steven Herbert, which mainly discusses the six normative orders that are fundamental parts of the framework of the police organization. The book is highly informative especially for people who are interested in policing. The author seems to have gathered his research through fieldwork, and the data gathered are mainly from observations.

This means that the author uses qualitative research processes in formulating his analysis and conclusions regarding the various factors at play in police work. He presents his data through anecdotes --- presenting the details of the scenario and then analyzing it afterward. This is quite effective especially in linking the relationship of the data he has gathered through observations. The only downside is that the style appears to be redundant after a couple of scenarios. His main stance is that in analyzing police work and behavior, one must pay attention not only to its cultural and social frameworks, but also in its inflexible nature in order to fully support and defend the generally accepted concept of public order (Herbert 20-1).

On a personal viewpoint, his argument benefits well from the qualitative nature of the research. The variables present in such research is not only quantified by numbers, but also qualified by reasons. Through this, the author is able to dig deeper into the “whys,” thus enabling him to formulate conclusions that will aid towards more insightful views into the reasons for certain police behaviors.Works CitedHerbert, Steven K. Policing Space: Territoriality and the Los Angeles Police Department.

Minneapolis, Minn: University of Minnesota Press, 1997. Internet resource.