Sociological research is a crucial part of sociological studies that provides systematic and evaluated data besides common sense. As Lumen Learning (2021) mentioned, common sense implies myths, traditions, unreliable investigations, and amateur observations. Social research aims to carefully observe, examine, and draw conclusions related to society or the topic of the inquiry. As sociology recognizes society and relationships as the main topic of study, sociological research applies the scientific method to produce accurate data. Even though common sense is used in sociological studies due to its relationships with society, sociological research is used to analyze and check them (Lumen Learning, 2021). Talking about the importance of sociological research, it is necessary to remember that sociology focuses on society and relationships. Both factors are highly affected by the customs, culture, and personal biases of people. Unlike physical phenomena, sociological events tend to change according to geographical location and social factors. Therefore, personal knowledge in sociological studies is inapplicable because it is formed in particular social and cultural conditions.
Sociological perspectives help sociologists to revise different issues through a variety of lenses. Sociological paradigms are indicated as the central part of sociological perspectives that analyze problems on macro and medium levels (Lumen Learning, 2021). For example, to approach the issue of women’s discrimination, one may apply the conflict theory developed by Karl Marx. Lumen Learning (2021) exemplifies feminist theory as a flow that implements conflict theory in male-centric aspects. Feminist theory also covers the topics related to sexual orientation, race, economic status, and women’s nationality. The theory’s focus is to identify the place of women in society and make them equal to men (Lumen Learning, 2021). Furthermore, the intersectional theory could analyze multiple variables such as social status, ethnicity, and age. For example, the #MeToo movement started with actress Asley Judd’s posts and resulted in massive campaigns related to the sexual harassment of women.
Reference
Lumen Learning. (2021). Sociological Research. Introduction to Sociology | Simple Book Production.