What is the value of replicating other studies?

In response to a question on the value of replication in social science research, the author undertook a search of the literature for expert advise on the value of such an activity. Using the information gleaned and the personal experience of attempting to replicate the research of a colleague, the conclusion was drawn that replica-tion has great value but little 'real life' application in the true sense. The activity itself, regardless of the degree of precision of the replication, can have great merit in extending understanding about a method or a concept. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]