Dr.

Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

LECTURE NOTES:1; SOCIAL RESEARCH

Introduction
Social science is concerned with society, human relations, human
behaviour and human interaction and it refers to various fields outside the
natural and physical science such as sociology, political science,
psychology, anthropology etc. Social research is rooted in this society. In
‘social research’ there is a combination of two different words- social and
research.

In this combination of social research, the word research is

composed of two syllables, ‘re’ and ‘search’. The dictionary defines the
former as a prefix meaning again, a new or over again and the latter as a
verb meaning to examine closely and carefully, to test and try, or to probe.
Together they form a noun describing a careful, systematic, patient study
and investigation in some field of knowledge, undertaken to establish facts
or principles (Grinnell 1993). Research means to find out again and again.
According to English Dictionary, research means in any age a careful
study and enquiry of the new facts. Thus, research is one of the unique
sources to acquire knowledge and find out the truth and reality of the
natural, physical and social world. C.C. Crawford defined research as
‘’research is simply a systematic and refined technique of thinking,
employing specialized tools, instruments & procedures to obtain a more
adequate solution of a problem than would be possible under ordinary
means’’ (Crawford in Singh 2000).

On the basis of above definition, we can say that research is a

systematic, logical, scientific and unbiased process to gain new
knowledge wherein verification, interpretation and formulation of principles
and promotion of knowledge is done. It is a systematized effort to gain
new knowledge and facts and verified older ones.

Characteristic of Research
Let us examine some of the characteristics to understand what does
research mean?

• Through research, new knowledge regarding the natural world, social

world and physical world is gained, therefore, it is concerned with
searching for new knowledge.

• During research there is a need for careful recording and noting of the
exact fact, what is? In absence of recording researcher can forget some of
the facts. It may be dangerous for research.

• In exploring causality in relation to two variables, we set up our study in a

way that minimizes the effects of other factors affecting the relationship.
This can be achieved to a large extent in the physical sciences, as most of
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

the research is done in a laboratory. However, in the social sciences it is

extremely difficult as research is carried out on issues relating to human
beings living in society, where such controls are difficult.

• Researchers must be scrupulous in ensuring that the procedures followed

to find answers to questions are relevant, appropriate and justified. Again,
the degree of rigorous varies markedly between the physical and the
social sciences and within the social sciences.

• The procedures adopted to undertake an investigation follow a certain

logical sequence. The different steps cannot be taken in a haphazard
way. Some procedures must follow others and there is focus on accuracy.
So, research is systematic and logical.

• Systematic and accurate investigation is based on logic and with logical

efforts objective knowledge is gained. To gain objective knowledge,
researchers eliminate personal feelings and preferences.

• Researcher concludes on the basis of his or her findings are correct and
valid and can be verified by you and others.

• Research is empirical as any conclusions drawn are based upon hard

evidence gathered from information collected from real-life experiences or
observations.

• Critical scrutiny of the procedures used, and the methods employed is

crucial to a research enquiry. The process of investigation must be
foolproof and free from any drawbacks. The process adopted and the
procedures used must be able to withstand critical scrutiny.

Meaning and Definition of Social Research

The term ‘social research’ is used as academic research on topics
relating to questions relevant to the social scientific fields, such as
sociology, social policy, political science, psychology, economics, and
criminology. Social research is a systematic method of exploring,
analyzing, and understanding human relations, social structures, and
cultural patterns. It seeks to uncover the causes and effects of social
phenomena through observation, data collection, and critical interpretation
and analysis. It is grounded in scientific principles, ensuring objectivity and
validity in its findings. It often involves surveys, interviews, case studies,
and experiments. Ethical considerations are central to the process,
protecting participants' rights and integrity. The findings of social research
contribute to academic knowledge and practical solutions for real-world
problems. It also helps to challenge assumptions, test theories, and
generate new ideas. Overall, social research is a vital tool for
understanding and improving society.

Thus, social research involves research that draws on the social

sciences for conceptual and theoretical inspiration. Such research may be
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

motivated by fulfilment of lust of knowledge, developments, and changes

in society, such as the rise in worries about security or binge-drinking, but
it employs social scientific ideas to illuminate those changes. It draws
upon the social sciences for ideas about how to formulate research topics
and issues and how to interpret and draw implications from research
findings. According to C. Moser, social research is a systematized
investigation to gain new knowledge about social phenomenon and
problems (Moser 1985).

According to P.V. Young, social research is a scientific undertaking

which by means of logical methods, aim to discover new facts or old facts
and to analyse their sequences, interrelationships, casual explanations,
and natural laws which govern them (Young 1975).

Neuman Lawrence defines social research as a collection of

methods and methodologies that researchers apply systematically to
produce scientifically based knowledge about the social world (Neuman
2008).

On the basis of above definitions social research can be defined as

the systematic and objective investigation and analysis of data, recording
of observations that may lead to the development of generalization and
principles or theories which result prediction and possibly ultimate control
of events in society. It involves leaning something new about the social
world and attempts to answer or solve social problems.

Key Characteristics of Social Research

Social research is directed towards the search of new knowledge
and the goal of it is to discover cause and effect / causal relationship
between or among social phenomena and social problems. It is a
systematic investigation into social phenomena and human behavior,
aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of social structures, processes,
and changes. Some of the key characteristics of social research are as
follows-
1. Systematic and Structured: Social research follows a structured and
systematic approach, employing well-defined methodologies to collect and
analyse data. This ensures that the findings are reliable and valid.
2. Empirical: Social research is based upon observable experience or
empirical evidence. Social investigators collect those facts which can be
observed empirically. It relies on empirical evidence, which is gathered
through observation, experimentation, or other data collection methods.
This empirical approach ensures that the research findings are grounded
in real-world observations and experiences.
3. Objective: Social researchers strive for objectivity, minimizing biases
and subjectivity in their studies. This involves using standardized methods
and procedures to ensure that the results are not influenced by personal
beliefs or preferences.
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

4. Theoretical Framework: Social research is often guided by theoretical

frameworks that provide a lens through which data is interpreted. These
theories help in forming hypotheses, guiding data collection, and
interpreting results.
5. Quantitative and Qualitative Methods: It employs both quantitative
methods (such as surveys, experiments, and statistical analysis) and
qualitative methods (such as interviews, focus groups, and ethnography).
The choice of method depends on the research question and objectives.
6. Ethical Considerations: Ethical principles are central to social
research. Researchers must ensure informed consent, confidentiality, and
the protection of participants from harm. Ethical review boards often
oversee the conduct of social research to ensure these standards are
met.
7. Interdisciplinary Nature: Social research often draws on concepts and
methods from various disciplines such as sociology, psychology,
anthropology, economics, and political science. It is interdisciplinary in
nature as researchers of different disciplines (sociology, economics,
political science, and psychology etc.) are engaged in social research.
This interdisciplinary approach enriches the analysis and understanding of
complex social issues.
8. Replicability: A key aspect of social research is that it should be
replicable. Other researchers should be able to reproduce the study using
the same methods and obtain similar results, which helps in verifying and
validating the findings.
9. Contextual Analysis: Social research often involves analyzing the
context within which social phenomena occur. This includes considering
historical, cultural, economic, and political factors that may influence the
behavior and attitudes of individuals and groups.
10. Problem-Oriented: It is typically problem-oriented, focusing on
addressing specific social issues or problems. The goal is to provide
insights that can inform policy, practice, and further research.
11. Dynamic and Evolving: Social research is dynamic and continuously
evolving. New theories, methodologies, and technologies influence how
research is conducted and how social phenomena are understood.
12. Collaborative: It often involves collaboration among researchers,
practitioners, and communities. This collaborative approach can enhance
the relevance and applicability of the research findings.
13. Carefully recorded and reported of observation: Every important
term is well defined, limiting factors are recognized, procedures are
described in detail, reference are carefully documented, results are
objectively recorded, and conclusions are presented with scholarly
caution.
14. Requires Courage: Social research sometimes requires courage as it
takes longer time to complete it. There are some experimental
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

researchers in social sciences which require loner time to complete it.

Some longitudinal research took decades to complete it.
These characteristics collectively ensure that social research is a rigorous,
reliable, and meaningful endeavour that contributes to our understanding
of social life and informs interventions aimed at improving societal well-
being.
Scope of Social Research
It is equally important to discuss the scope of social research. The scope
of social research is as follows:

• Now all the societies are practicing social planning and policies for
development and welfare, social research is used to evaluate these
planning and policies of social development.

• Social research is used in social reform and development. By using social

investigation, we get information about the possibilities of social reform
and development.

• Social research is used in the market to know the consumption pattern,

consumer products and behavior by which consumer satisfaction and
quality of products can be improved.

• Since there are several socio-economic problems and miseries in society,

social research is used in solving these social problems and mysteries.

• Since there are several discriminations and equalities in our society social
research is used to establish an egalitarian society in which every citizen
can live with dignity, equality and respect.
Nature of Social Research
The nature of social research encompasses a wide range of
characteristics and principles that distinguish it from other forms of inquiry. Some
key aspects are-
1. Interdisciplinary: Social research often draws on insights from various
disciplines such as sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political
science, and others. This interdisciplinary approach allows researchers to gain a
comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.
2. Empirical: Social research is based on empirical evidence obtained through
systematic observation, experimentation, or data collection. This evidence is
used to support or refute hypotheses, theories, or claims about social
phenomena.
3. Objective and subjective: While social research aims for objectivity in data
collection and analysis, it also acknowledges the subjective nature of human
experience. Researchers strive to minimize bias and interpret findings in a way
that accurately reflects the complexities of social reality.
4. Qualitative and quantitative: Social research can be qualitative, focusing on
understanding the meaning and interpretation of social phenomena through
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

methods like interviews, observations, or content analysis. It can also be

quantitative, involving the measurement and analysis of numerical data using
statistical techniques.
5. Contextual: Social research considers the context in which social phenomena
occur, including historical, cultural, economic, and political factors.
Understanding these contextual elements is crucial for interpreting findings
accurately.
6. Ethical: Social research must adhere to ethical principles to ensure the rights,
dignity, and well-being of research participants. This includes obtaining informed
consent, protecting confidentiality, and minimizing harm.
7. Iterative: Social research often involves an iterative process of hypothesis
generation, data collection, analysis, and theory development. Researchers may
refine their research questions or methods based on preliminary findings or
unexpected insights.
8. Applied and theoretical: Social research can have both applied and
theoretical aims. Applied research seeks to address practical problems or inform
policy decisions, while theoretical research aims to advance understanding of
social processes and phenomena.
9. Dynamic and evolving: The nature of social reality is dynamic and constantly
changing, influenced by various social, cultural, economic, and technological
factors. Social research must adapt to these changes and evolve accordingly to
remain relevant and impactful.

By considering these aspects, social researchers can conduct rigorous and

insightful studies that contribute to our understanding of human and social
relationships, social interaction, social structure, social functions, social
institutions, social problems and societal dynamics.

Importance of Social Research

The study of social research is pivotal in understanding,
analyzing, and addressing the myriad complexities within human
societies. Social research is the systematic investigation into the social
behavior, interactions, and cultures of individuals and groups. There are
several key reasons why the study of social research is important:
1. Understanding Social Phenomena: Social research provides insights
into how societies function and evolve. By studying social behaviors and
structures, researchers can identify patterns and trends that define human
interaction. This understanding helps in explaining phenomena such as
social change, cultural diversity, and societal norms.
2. Informing Public Policy and Decision-Making: Effective public
policies are often grounded in robust social research. Policymakers rely
on data and findings from social research to craft legislation and programs
that address social issues such as poverty, education, healthcare, and
crime. Research helps in identifying the root causes of problems and in
evaluating the potential impact of proposed solutions.
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

3. Enhancing Social Justice and Equality: Social research can highlight

disparities and inequalities within societies, shedding light on issues
related to race, gender, class, and other social categories. By bringing
these issues to the forefront, social research supports advocacy and
initiatives aimed at promoting social justice and equality.
4. Improving Social Services and Programs: Organizations that provide
social services, such as non-profits, government agencies, and
community groups, use social research to assess the effectiveness of
their programs. Through evaluation studies and needs assessments,
these organizations can improve their services, ensuring they meet the
needs of their target populations.
5. Advancing Academic Knowledge: Social research contributes to the
body of academic knowledge, driving theoretical and methodological
advancements in fields such as sociology, anthropology, psychology, and
political science. It supports the development of new theories and models
that explain social behavior and structures.
6. Facilitating Social Change: Research can be a catalyst for social
change by uncovering and documenting issues that require attention. For
instance, studies on climate change, human rights abuses, or economic
inequalities can mobilize public opinion and lead to significant societal
reforms.
7. Enhancing Organizational Effectiveness: Businesses and
organizations use social research to understand consumer behavior,
employee satisfaction, and organizational culture. This knowledge helps in
designing better products, improving workplace environments, and
enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.
8. Promoting Cross-Cultural Understanding: In an increasingly
globalized world, social research helps in understanding different cultures
and societies. This understanding fosters cross-cultural communication,
reduces prejudices, and promotes global cooperation and peace.
9. Methodological Innovation: The field of social research itself benefits
from continual methodological innovation. Researchers develop and refine
tools and techniques for data collection and analysis, improving the
reliability and validity of their findings. These innovations often have
applications beyond social research, impacting other scientific disciplines.
10. Personal and Professional Development: For individuals studying
social research, it provides critical thinking and analytical skills, enhancing
their ability to understand and interpret complex social issues. These skills
are valuable in a wide range of careers, from academia and public policy
to business and non-profit management.
Problems of Social Research in Countries like India
 Dr. Birpal Singh Thenua SYM302; L-1

Researchers in country like India are facing several problems. Some of

these problems are as follows:

• There is a lack of proper training in researchers in the methodology of

research, which is one of the great impediments in our country. Many
researchers take a leap in the dark without knowing research methods
and research methodology. Most of the works, which are in the name of
social research, are not methodologically sound.
• There is insufficient interaction between the university research
departments and business establishments, government departments and
research institutions.
• Much research overlapping one another is undertaken quite often for need
of adequate information. It results in duplication and fritters away
resources.
• There is also a lack of a code of conduct for researchers and
interdepartmental and inter-university rivalries are also quite common. So,
there is a requirement for developing a code of conduct for researchers.
• Many of the researchers in our country also face difficulties with adequate
and timely assistance. This causes an unnecessary delay in the
completion of research projects.
• Management of libraries and their functioning is also not satisfactory in
many places. Much of the time and energy of researchers are spent
tracing out the Journals, books, reports, etc., rather than tracing out
relevant material.
• Another problem is that many of our libraries do not have copies of old
and new Acts or Rules, reports, and other government publications. This
problem is generally felt more in libraries which are far away from national
capital or state capitals.
• The difficulty in timely availability of published data from various
governments and other agencies doing this job in our country is another
problem. Many researchers face the problem because the published data
vary quite significantly.

Summing up

Social research is a well-organized and systematic effort to

investigate a specific problem and social condition, social institution,
group, and social process that need a solution and enrich our knowledge.
It also corrects human knowledge. Society is an organized group of
individuals and web of relationship of individuals associated together with
shared objective, norms and values pertain to the society. People have
social life and social process, and social research is to about to seek
knowledge and understanding all about this.

Social research is characterized as a problem oriented, organized,

systematic and intellectual search of new facts and verification of older
ones. It utilized different tools and techniques and methods and statistics
and thus involves data classification, interpretation, and analysis.

**********