Theory and Research

Question:1

Identify and explain the main functions of theory in social research. [10 points]

Question: 2

What is the relationship between theory and research? Explain your answer using one example from the readings. [10 points]

Question:3

Define causality and its applicability to social science research. [6 points]
Question: 4

Discuss the criteria for nomothetic causality. [9 points]

Question:5

Discuss the obstacles in the search for nomothetic causality. Illustrate your answer with examples. [10 points]

Question: 6

Many people believe science to be an infallible enterprise. Discuss the merits and fallacy of this belief. [15 marks]

Answer four of the following questions. [10 points each]

Question 7 Identify and define the three elements of the traditional model of science.

Question 8 Describe the difference between the idiographic and nomothetic models of explanation and the relevance of each to social science research.

Question 9 Distinguish anonymity from confidentiality, and provide examples of how each can be protected during research.

Question 10 List, explain, and provide examples of five common errors in human inquiry.

Question 11 List, define, and give examples of the four factors limiting a respondent’s reliability, and discuss how each of these factors can be controlled.

Question 12 List and define the five ethical principles, and describe their impact on the practice of social research.