Originally published in 1985, this book investigates, through real cases, whether independently funded research which was intended to solve social problems has had the desired effect. It also inquires whether civil servants believe that research has a part to play in the formulation of policy. The researcher’s time scale is long and the policy maker’s is short. Does this conflict always mean that the results of research are produced long after policy has been decided and implemented? The book also examines the funders of social research who make up the third party in the uneasy relationship between social scientists and policy makers. This important study goes to the very heart of the debate about social research.