Analyzing cultural products: A new method of measurement

Karen A. Cerulo

doi:10.1016/0049-089X(88)90007-5

Analyzing cultural products: A new method of measurement

Karen A. Cerulo

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

This research demonstrates a new technique for directly analyzing symbols. I present a full set of newly devised indicators allowing for the systematic measurement of musical symbols. Specifically, musical symbols are approached as symbolic codes; the measures classify these codes along several continua ranging from basic to embellished in design. Statistical tests assure us of the measures' validity. Using them, any piece of Western tonal music based on diatonic scales can be quantitatively measured in a precise and easily replicateable manner. Consequently, musical symbols become an accessible source of sociological data, amenable to all the rigorous research methods that are a central part of the sociological tradition. Potential sociological applications of the measures are presented and discussed.

Original language	English (US)
Pages (from-to)	317-352
Number of pages	36
Journal	Social Science Research
Volume	17
Issue number	4
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1016/0049-089X(88)90007-5
State	Published - Jan 1 1988
Externally published	Yes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

Education
Sociology and Political Science

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