Spirit in the Machine: Readings in the History of Social Science is a comprehensive history of social science presented through primary source readings that introduce a variety of important ideas and research methods and examine their origins. Many are the work of well-known names, while alternative perspectives are represented in the writing of lesser-known authors and some selections serve as representations of specific research methodologies.

The reading selections are organized into chapters according to topic. These topics include the origins of western thought, the professionalization of social science, egalitarianism, experimentalism in America, enlightenment social science, guidance and control, and the complexity of making choices in contemporary society.

Taken together, the selected works serve to reveal the historical pathway to the modern ideal of an accessible, participatory means for guiding society. Each chapter features discussion questions for use in-class or as writing prompts. Spirit in the Machine is ideal for broad survey courses in the social sciences, public policy, and world history.