Research Methodology

This book treats scientific research as one connected undertaking, spanning everything from the philosophical underpinnings of science to the practical design of a study. Its approach draws on systems science and systems analysis to examine how research is conducted and how scientific work is organized.

The opening chapters lay out the foundations of research methodology, covering philosophical, psychological, epistemological, and ethical and aesthetic considerations. The discussion then turns to the character of scientific activity, including the principles that guide scientific knowing, along with the tools and techniques used in investigation. Later sections address how a research project is carried out, following its stages from start to finish, and how a large research effort involving several people can be planned.

The volume is intended for researchers, students, and professionals in systems science, cybernetics, systems engineering, philosophy of science, and project management. It will also appeal to practitioners in operations research, programming, mathematical modeling of organizational decisions, and economics who apply these methods in their work.