Final answer:
Research in social sciences like sociology is influenced by social, cultural, and ethical factors, moving away from the traditional view of structured, unbiased scientific inquiry. Questions often arise from societal trends and current issues, exemplified by the shift from basic to applied research.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scientific research is often perceived as a set of standardized procedures known as the scientific method, which includes forming a hypothesis, collecting data, and testing theories in a linear and objective fashion. However, research, especially in social sciences like sociology, is not conducted in a social vacuum and often deviates from this traditional view due to influences such as cultural norms, researcher biases, and ethical considerations.
For example, a traditional view would argue for a highly structured approach to research, where hypotheses are tested in controlled environments. In contrast, sociologists may start with a question about society, adopting either a scientific approach or an interpretive framework to understand social phenomena. Such inquiry might delve into how societal trends influence the choice of research subjects, reflecting broader socio-cultural values and current societal concerns. Therefore, questions of interest may stem from real-world social issues, such as gender roles, rather than solely from existing scientific theory. When considering gender in sociological research, studies have shown differences in socialization processes, career choices, and access to resources between men and women, influencing both the choice of research topics and the interpretation of data.
An example from the provided text might involve the shift from basic research, which seeks to increase understanding and knowledge, to applied research, which aims to solve specific, practical problems. This shift reflects changes in societal priorities and funding availability, highlighting how science is embedded in a broader social and cultural context.