This book is mainly designed for students and researchers of social sciences and business administration. It is organised into six parts, covering 20 chapters, each comprehensively dealing with varied aspects of the problem under discussion. What distinguishes it from other works on the subject is that it combines the author’s personal observations—based on his extensive research experience—with the experiences of other scholars as reflected in the literature. The aim is not only to acquaint students with the judicious blend of elementary and theoretical knowledge in social research but also guide the researchers with the basic complexities of undertaking research. The approach to analysis is interdisciplinary while examples from empirical studies conducted in Indian society make the text clearer. 

Ever since the last edition of this book was published in 2001, Research Methods have come a long way. New edition of this best selling text is now updated with new content in Chapters 1, 9 and 14. Ethics and integrity in social research have become increasingly important for social scientists across disciplines. Catering to this need, a full length chapter on ‘Ethics in Social Research’ has been added to this edition. The book will continue to stimulate students, teachers and researchers across disciplines for years to come.