Qualitative Methodology in Sociological Studies

Abstract

The application of the scientific method in the humanities and social sciences particularly in sociology differs significantly from its use in the natural sciences. In natural sciences, phenomena can be tested under controlled conditions, as everything is within the researcher’s grasp, similar to a surgeon during an operation or a physicist in a laboratory. While this does not imply simplicity, it does allow for the isolation of variables from external influences. In contrast, social and human phenomena are far more complex and multidimensional, making it difficult to isolate them from their societal context or subject them to experimental procedures. Furthermore, prediction in natural sciences tends to be more precise, whereas in the humanities and social sciences, prediction is inherently less reliable due to the non-replicable nature of social events under identical societal conditions. Hence the methodological dilemma in sociology remains a central issue, as it is closely tied to the challenge of accurate diagnosis and the uncovering of hidden factors governing the studied phenomena. The crisis of sociology in societies that have not experienced a genuine scientific breakthrough is, above all, an intellectual and cultural crisis. However, it is also deeply rooted in methodological shortcomings, particularly given the limited number of qualitative studies in these contexts. Methodology forms the foundation of scientific knowledge, which evolves through the tools and techniques employed by researchers. This is especially critical when seeking to localize sociological knowledge. Qualitative methodology, with its diverse epistemological schools, is inherently experimental. It is the methodology of social life and human interaction, focused on studying individuals and social reality in all its dimensions. This requires a clear and objective methodological approach one that avoids ambiguity and confusion often resulting from the random importation of foreign research methods.