Conjectures and Evidences: Methods of Inquiry in the Political and Social Sciences with Elementary Statistics [Paperback]

This book examines some of the major and most commonly used methods and statistics necessary for social science research. It is meant primarily for the beginners, and hence does not require any prior training in research methodology or statistics.

The methods discussed include aggregate data analysis, the method of survey research, experimental and quasi-experimental research designs, participant observation, content analysis, and focus groups study. In a separate chapter the issue of quantitative and qualitative research methods and their uses has been discussed. An attempt has been made to assess these methods especially from the point of view of their adoption and application by social scientists working in the developing economies.

Print edition not for sale in South Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan or Bhutan)

Theory, Epistemological Concerns and Ontological Questions

Trajectories of Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Data and Data Collection Techniques in Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Major Preoccupations of Quantitative and Qualitative Researchers

Critique of Quantitative and Qualitative Research

Why learn methodology?

Concepts, Hypotheses and Variables

J.S. Mill and the Experimental Method

The Experiment

Experimental Designs

Quasi-Experimental Designs