An Introduction to the Philosophy of Methodology

This book provides a concise introduction to the philosophy of methodology and stands apart from existing methodology texts by clarifying in an engaging manner distinctions between philosophical positions, paradigms of inquiry, methodology and methods. Building an understanding of the relationships between philosophical positions and paradigms is an essential part of the research process and integral in deploying the methodology and methods best suited for a research project, thesis or dissertation.

Aided throughout by clear definitions and examples, this book covers topics such as:

positivism and post-positivism

phenomenology

critical theory

constructivist and participatory paradigms

post-modernism and post-structuralism

ethnography

grounded theory

hermeneutics

discourse.

The main objective of this book is to support social science research at all academic levels. This text can assist students in developing research projects and, for more experienced researchers undertaking mixed methodological approaches, it will provide greater understanding of underlying issues relating to unfamiliar techniques.