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The scientific method applied to social reality
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Chapter 2: The scientific method applied to social realityNatural sciences investigate the properties and laws of natural phenomena,
while social sciences investigate the properties and laws of social
phenomena. The development of both sciences is determined by the needs,
values, aspirations and other characteristics of a particular society. Because
research is often limited by ethics and other factors which interfere with the
research, most results are expressed as probability statements, e.g. “It is likely
that...”.
A theory is a set of ideas or statements that explain a particular social
phenomenon.
A fact is an indisputable set of statements about reality. The natural sciences
tend to focus on facts. It assumes that our knowledge is perceptual
(information about the environment is perceived through our senses). However,
perceptual knowledge is not enough. We also need rational knowledge,
which is based on judgement and logical thought, and provides explanations
for relationships between things.
Facts and theories can be compared by the following explanations:
Facts give rise to theories since facts need to be explained. Facts are
what happen, theories explain why it happens.
Theories serve as the basis for the gathering of facts. Researchers
formulate theories, and must then obtain facts to prove or disprove their
theories.
Facts allow a researcher to find support for, improve, disprove or
formulate a theory. Facts can clarify a phenomenon, and will strengthen
or weaken a theory.
The process of theory reformulation is important to the advancement of
science, and therefore, new knowledge. If theories were not developed,
our knowledge would stop developing too.
Theories are typically not proven; facts are.
Theories allow for the classification and conceptualisation of facts.
Theories summarise and explain how relevant facts relate to one another.
Theories predict facts.
Our understanding of the world is a product of our personal assumptions,
biases and prejudices. Social science research can either use the quantitative,
qualitative or mixed-methods approach to do research. The quantitative
approach focuses on facts and statistics, and follows the steps that a natural
scientist would follow. This would occur by collecting data in a specific
sequence of steps, while remaining entirely objective.
The qualitative approach focuses on experiences and is often used when
there is not much existing research on the subject. Here, the plan of research is
more flexible and circular.
The mixed-method approach combines the two approaches in order to give
a balanced, accurate picture. Mixed-method approaches may combine
structured questionnaires and open-ended interviews; surveys and case-
studies; or questionnaires and observations.
See the following comparison:
Criteria Quantitative Qualitative
Structure Rigid Flexible
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