Q 1 - What is the importance of research methods in the study of Political Science? Discuss in detail the need for studying these methods.
Answer - :
Introduction
Political Science is not merely the study of ideas and theories, but a systematic body of knowledge that helps us understand how political events, policies, and power structures function. To understand these aspects deeply and with evidence, research methods are used. These methods provide a systematic framework for observation, data collection, and analysis so that the conclusions can be reliable and verifiable.
Meaning of Research – The word Research is derived from the Sanskrit root “षध” (shadh), which means “search for truth.” It is a systematic effort through which we deeply examine a subject or problem and arrive at new conclusions that contribute to the development of both society and science."
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Major Thinkers' Views on Research :
John W. Best - In his book “Research in Education” (1986), he stated:
"Research is an investigation in which scientific methods are used to try to solve problems." |
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| According to Clifford Woody - "Research is a systematic process in which the problem is identified, facts are collected, and analyzing them to find an accurate solution." |
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Importance of Studying Research Methods:
1. Development of Scientific Outlook - Research methods give us a scientific way of thinking and understanding. This helps us understand things not on the basis of guesswork or emotions, but with evidence and logic. This makes political information more accurate and reliable.
2. Analysis of complex political events - Many events in politics are very complex, such as elections, laws, government policies, international relations, etc. Research methods provide a systematic way to understand these events. This allows us to clearly understand the cause, effect and relationship.
3. Efficiency in Data Collection and Interpretation- Research methods teach us how to gather information (data) properly and how to understand its meaning. For example: how to conduct surveys, how to ask questions to people, and how to analyze statistics. This makes the information we get more accurate and useful.
4. Ensuring Ethics and Reliability - There are many things to keep in mind while doing research, such as: keeping people's information confidential, not giving false data and being impartial. Research methods help us understand and follow these ethical rules, which makes our work reliable.
5. Connecting Global and Local Contexts - Research methods help us understand how our country's problems and policies are connected to larger events in the world. This allows us to look at an issue not just from our own perspective but from a global perspective. This makes political research international rather than limited to the regional level, thereby increasing the possibilities for comparison, learning, and collaboration.
1. Quantitative research methods –
These methods are based on numbers and statistics. In this, we collect and analyze data from sources like surveys, census, or elections. This helps us know how many people think in a certain way, what is more common, and what changes are taking place over time. This method helps in understanding political decisions and policies in a scientific manner.
2. Qualitative research methods –
In this method, things are understood in depth: such as people's thoughts, experiences, emotions, and social environment. It involves the use of interviews, discussions, and case studies. This method is useful when we want to know the reasons behind a movement, protest, or political thinking. It makes political knowledge more human and sensitive.
3. Comparative research method –
In this method, the political systems, laws, or policies of two or more countries or states are compared. This helps in understanding what is working better in which place and why. This method is useful for policy-making and political reforms.
4. Historical research method –
In this method, past events and policies are studied. The purpose is to understand where the roots of today’s politics lie. This method helps in understanding how present decisions are connected to past experiences or events.
Conclusion :
Research methods in political science do not limit the subject to theories only, but help in deeply understanding, analyzing and finding solutions to political events, policies and social structures by making the study scientific, systematic and practical, thereby not only developing knowledge but also making active contribution possible in democratic system, policy-making and social reform.
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