Introduction to Experimental Method. For Psychology and the Social Sciences: By John C. Townsend, Ph.D. New York, Toronto, London: McGraw-Hill Book Co., Inc., 1953. 220 pp.

This book is precisely what its title promises. It offers an introductory discussion of the fundamentals of experimentation, followed by a clear exposition of methods and apparatus, and supplemented by references to more detailed and advanced reading matter for those interested in specific research. Two features are particularly commendable: first, the comments on the advantages and pitfalls inherent in the various types of experimental methods; second, the skilful and concise manner in which the essential interdependence of experimental and statistical methods is clarified. The appended tables are useful and well selected. It should be pointed out, however, that the author does not entirely escape some of the sins he warns against. He states that 'psychoanalytic theory is built upon nontestable hypotheses', and quotes a 'psychoanalytic study' in which a cat's attempts to crawl into a drain spout are interpreted as a 'death wish'. The former statement seems to constitute an overinclusive generalization, the latter unrepresentative sampling. Nevertheless, this text by virtue of its lucid presentation may be recommended.