Introduction.

This chapter presents an introduction to the book Introduction to the Philosophy of Social Research. Chapter two seeks to clarify what seems like an obvious question: what is science? This, of course, reflects the very nature of philosophical inquiry: to ask the obvious and, in so doing, to cause individuals to reflect upon their assumptions. By asking such questions, philosophy shakes the foundations of scientific practice. Chapter three, considers the extent to which the social sciences are similar to, or different from, the natural sciences. For many, to follow in the path of the natural sciences is to replicate what is assumed to be, along with explanation, generalization and prediction, a central feature of their practice: value-freedom. Chapter seven would, for reasons that will become apparent, seem out of place in any book that seeks some linear progression in fulfilling its aims. Here it examines the poststructuralist and postmodernist movements in social science and philosophy that have appeared over the last few decades. A key area of philosophy is that of metaphysics. This is a form of abstract thought that attempts to establish some first principles as foundations for knowledge. The research process is made up of a series of steps and judgements that involve the application of techniques. For this reason, the methods of research can be used in the service of curiosity. Research may be characterized as methodical investigations into a subject or problem. Both philosophy and social research aim to improve people's knowledge of the world.