Book Details
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Author: N. K. Sarkar
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Edition: September 1978
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Multiple Book Set: No
About the Book
In this thought-provoking work, N. K. Sarkar discusses the challenges inherent in the study of social sciences, particularly the subjective biases that influence the cognitive process of social scientists. Drawing on Engels' statement, "Freedom is the recognition of necessity," Sarkar explores the contrast between the objective nature of physical sciences and the more subjective nature of the social sciences. While physical sciences rely on objective verification and experimentation, the social sciences are heavily influenced by the personal views, political ideologies, class loyalties, and national interests of the scholars involved.
Sarkar reflects on the work of Gunnar Myrdal, who for over twenty years has warned about the dangers of such biases in social science research, though these concerns have largely gone unaddressed. The book highlights the persistent influence of personal and ideological biases on the study of social phenomena, pointing out how social scientists often fail to recognize these biases and, instead, project an illusion of objectivity and universality in their findings. Sarkar's critical analysis underscores the need for greater awareness of these biases to ensure more accurate and objective social science research.
