Problems in Social Science Research: The Case of Political Science in India

Abstract

In this lecture, Dr. Sita Radhakrishnan explores the foundational challenges of social science research, particularly in political science. She addresses the historical context of social sciences, tracing their roots to the Industrial Revolution and Auguste Comte's philosophy. The lecture emphasizes the paradigm shifts brought about by Einstein’s theory of relativity and its implications for both natural and social sciences. Dr. Radhakrishnan highlights the tentative nature of scientific knowledge, its relativity, and the complexity of studying human behavior within a dynamic social reality. The discussion also delves into the evolution of political science from philosophy, marking its transition into a distinct discipline with scientific methodologies.