CHAPTER ABSTRACT

In this chapter we examine how scientists formulate the problems they research. We consider two basic methodological fallacies-the ecological fallacy and the individualist fallacy-that result from inappropriately making conclusions based on the units of analysis used. We then define the types of variables and begin to explore the possible relations that may exist among them. Next, we provide basic guidelines for deriving research hypotheses and the role hypotheses play in our research methodology. It should be understood that whether social science research is carried out under the theory-then-research strategy or the research-then-theory strategy, the fundamental elements such as research problem, unit of analysis, variable, relation, and hypothesis remain the same because they help transform an idea into concrete research operations.