Introduction: Scientific Discovery in the Social Sciences

Abstract

Is it reasonable to talk about scientific discoveries in the social sciences? This chapter briefly reviews the status of scientific research in the social sciences and some of the arguments for and against the notion of scientific discovery in those sciences. After providing definitions of “scientific discovery” and “social sciences”, the chapter notes the large variety of epistemological views and methodologies drawn on by the social sciences. It discusses the extent to which the social sciences use precise formalisms for expressing theories. Critiques of the use and reliability of the scientific method in the social sciences are discussed. In spite of these critiques, it is argued that it is possible to speak of scientific discovery in the social sciences. The chapter ends with a preview of the book.