Handbook of sociological science : contributions to rigorous sociology 22 out of the 26 Chapters will be available Open Access on Elgaronline when the book is published. The Handbook of Sociological Science offers a refreshing integrated perspective on research programs and ongoing developments in sociological science. It highlights key shared theoretical and methodological features thereby contributing to progress and cumulative growth of sociological knowledge. Reflecting unity in diversity chapters explore a wide variety of research fields ranging from cultural capital migration social networks gender inequality historical sociology and ethnography to the intersection of sociology and the life sciences. Examining basic methodological standards for theory construction and empirical research the Handbook exemplifies commonalities between research programmes within these fields. The contributors also explore rigorous sociology related to theory construction empirical research and methods including statistical modelling and the integration of theoretical and empirical research. Forward thinking and original the Handbook concludes by illustrating the common core of rigorous sociology how it can contribute to understanding societal problems and to policy making and how research into sociological science can continue to thrive in the future. Accessible and engaging this Handbook will be invaluable for scholars and researchers of sociology and sociological theory research methods in sociology and social policy and comparative social policy. Exploring new developments and applications it will also act as a useful reference guide for policy makers. The Handbook will likewise be an important resource for teaching advanced courses and training graduate students