In Principles of Sociological Inquiry: Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Blackstone stresses the importance of understanding research methods in order to pursue an advanced degree. As an active researcher herself, Blackstone is acutely aware of the need for a balanced approach of both qualitative and quantitative methods of sociological inquiry. Therefore, the three overriding objectives of this textbook are: Relevance, Balance, and Accessibility. Blackstone emphasizes the relevance of research methods for the everyday lives of its readers, undergraduate students.