Chapter 2: Nature and Philosophy of Research
Chapter 2 Nature and Philosophy of Research 2.1 Introduction Research is not only a process of collecting and analyzing data but also a way of understanding reality through systematic inquiry. Every research study is influenced by certain philosophical assumptions about knowledge, reality, and the methods used to obtain knowledge. These philosophical foundations guide researchers in selecting research designs, methods, and analytical approaches. The philosophy of research refers to the underlying beliefs about how knowledge is created, interpreted, and validated. Understanding research philosophy helps scholars develop clarity about their research approach and choose appropriate methods for conducting their studies. This chapter introduces the nature of research and the key philosophical paradigms that influence research methodologies. 2.2 Nature of Research The nature of research reflects the fundamental characteristics that define research as a scientific acti...