Theory and methodology of exploratory social science research

Abstract

Confirmatory, deductive research cannot produce absolute truths, according Karl POPPER (2002). If we accept this premise, then it is worth giving inductive and explorative research another chance. Exploration can produce valid and insightful findings in the social sciences, if conducted in a transparent and self-reflexive way. It can also profit from applying dialectical thinking. This article proposes a rationale for exploration in the social sciences and it elaborates the criteria on which such research must stand.