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SOCIAL SCIENCE
RESEARCH
Salim N.
▪ Sciences are broadly divided into physical sciences & social
sciences.
▪ Social sciences include various disciplines dealing with
human nature, human life, human behaviour, social groups
& Social institutions.
▪ Example Artropology, Commerce, Economics, Geography,
History, Law, Political science, Phychology, Sociology etc.
▪ All these branches are separate but are interdependent.
▪ Social sciences are not exact science like physical
sciences.
▪ It deals with human beings.
▪ Human nature and mans environment are so complex,
that it is more difficult to comprehend and predict
human behavior than the physical phenomena.
▪ It is difficult see the underlying uniformities in the
diversity of complex human behavior.
▪ Social Science Research is a systematic method of exploring
analysing & conceptualizing human life inorder to extent, correct
or verify the knowledge of human behaviour & social life.
▪ Social Research, “Seeks to find explanations to unexplained
social phenomena, to clarify the doubtful & correct the
misconceived facts social life”- Pauline. V. Young.
OBJECTIVES OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
RESEARCH
▪ a) The aim of Social Science Research is to discover new facts or verify
and test old facts.
▪ b) It tries to understand the human behaviour & its interaction with
the environment & Social institutions.
▪ c) It tries to find out causal connection between human activities and
natural laws governing them.
▪ d) Another purpose of Social Science Research is to develop new tools
and techniques in social science.
FUNCTIONS OF SOCIAL SCIENCE
RESEARCH
▪ 1. Discovery of facts & their interpretations - Research provides answer
to questions of what, where, when & how of man, social life and
institutions. There are half truths pseudotruths and superstitions.
Discovery of facts enlights us.
▪ 2. Diagnosis of problems- The developing countries face so many
problems such as poverty unemployment, Social tensions, law
productivity etc. Social Science Research helps to discover solution to
this problems.
▪ 3. Systematization of knowledge- The facts discovered through
research are past & parcel of the body of knowledge
▪ 4. Prediction- Social Science Research aims at predicting social events
▪ . 5. Planning – Panning is needed for socio-economic development &
Social Science Research provides sufficient data for planning.
▪ 6. Social Welfare- Social Science Research unfold & identify the causes
of social evils & problems.
Importance of Social Science Research
• 1. Understanding Human Behavior
• Social science research helps in understanding how individuals
and groups behave in various social, cultural, economic, and
political contexts. By studying human behavior, researchers can
identify patterns, motivations, and the impact of different factors
on people's actions.
• 2. Informing Policy and Decision-Making
• Governments, organizations, and institutions rely on social science
research to make informed decisions. Research findings can guide
policymakers in creating laws, regulations, and programs that are
evidence-based and tailored to meet the needs of society.
• 3. Promoting Social Justice and Equality
• Social science research often highlights issues of inequality,
discrimination, and injustice. By uncovering the root causes of
social problems, researchers can advocate for policies and
interventions that promote fairness and equality.
• 4. Improving Quality of Life
• Through studies on health, education, poverty, and other social
issues, social science research contributes to improving the
quality of life. For instance, research in public health can lead to
better healthcare policies and practices that save lives and
enhance well-being.
• 5. Cultural Understanding and Preservation
• Research in anthropology, sociology, and related fields helps
preserve cultural heritage and fosters cross-cultural
understanding. By documenting and analyzing different cultural
practices and beliefs, social scientists contribute to a more
inclusive and diverse global society.
• 6. Economic Development
• Economics, as a branch of social science, provides insights into
how markets function, how resources are allocated, and what
factors drive economic growth. This research is vital for developing
strategies that promote sustainable economic development.
• 7. Enhancing Education
• Educational research within the social sciences informs teaching
methods, curriculum development, and educational policies. It
helps educators understand how students learn and what strategies
are most effective in promoting educational achievement.
• 8. Addressing Global Challenges
• Many of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as climate
change, migration, and international conflict, require an
understanding of the social and political dynamics involved. Social
science research provides the knowledge necessary to tackle these
global issues.
• 9. Fostering Innovation
• Social scientists often explore how societies change and adapt,
which can lead to innovations in technology, governance, and
business practices. By understanding social trends and behaviors,
researchers can anticipate future needs and opportunities.
• 10. Encouraging Civic Engagement
• Research in political science and sociology often focuses on civic
participation and democracy. By understanding what motivates
people to engage in civic activities, social scientists can help
design initiatives that strengthen democratic processes and
citizen involvement.