Fernandes, WalterTandon, Rajesh2024-11-192024-11-191981Fernandes, W., & Tandon, R. (1998). Social Research for Social Action: An Introduction. In W. Fernandes & R. Tandon (Eds.), Participatory Research and Evaluation: Experiments in Research as a Process of Liberalisation (pp. 1-12). Indian Social Institute.http://192.9.200.215:4000/handle/123456789/202This material was developed as part of the Fourth Residential Programme on Development Management for Grassroots Development Organisations in South Asia (January 12 - March 13, 1998). It forms Module-II, which delves into the role of participatory research and evaluation as tools for empowerment and societal transformation.This chapter explores the interplay between social research and social action, highlighting their interdependent nature. It critiques traditional top-down research models, emphasizing the need for participatory approaches where power and control are decentralized. Drawing from theoretical insights and practical examples, the authors argue for a paradigm shift that treats social research as a process of liberation, advocating for participatory social action to empower marginalized communities. The text also examines the challenges and ethical considerations inherent in these alternative methodologies.enParticipatory ResearchSocial ActionDevelopment ManagementGrassroots DevelopmentPower Dynamics in ResearchBook chapter