Philosophy of Research in Social Sciences

Research philosophy determines paradigmatic, methodological, and technical strategies of research; therefore, achieving a valid finding in humanities and social sciences research depends on the researcher’s knowledge of the principles of research philosophy and adherence to it during the research process. In this book, the authors, while addressing the philosophy of research and its dimensions, have introduced four approaches: positivist, interpretive, critical, and realistic. Also, they have examined the relationship between research philosophy and the strategy and methods in the research process based on each of the above approaches. Finally, the authors explore the disadvantages and challenges of research to achieve a credible finding in the humanities and social sciences in Iran. This book is a different look on the subject of research philosophy and methodology that can be used by graduate students in various fields of social sciences as well as science policymakers.