How to Use Life History in Sociology?

Journal of Social Research & Policy, Volume: 9, Issue: 1, pp. 41-54

Date: July 2018

ISSN: 2067-2640 (print), 2068-9861 (electronic)

Abstract: In this study I present how life history method may contribute to better understanding of society and culture or historical periods. The past lives in the present–as they say. “Putting together” a person’s life–according to different aspects– complements the social self-awareness. First, I briefly summarize the characteristics of life history, then I describe some aspects of analysis and after these I will present a concrete life history analysis. The last step was when I drew attention to theory–that it is worthwhile to support and sum up the narrative of life history with a carefully chosen theory.

Keywords: Biography Methods; Personal Documents; Life History; Turning Points; Analysis of Life Stories