A Dialogue on Social Inquiry: Expanding Our Understanding of Sociological Thinking

Abstract

Highlights

• Social inquiry is much more than the study of society. It further excavates historical facts, critically reflects on everyday happenings, and envisions the future we wish to create.
• The intent of initiating this dialogue on social inquiry is two-fold: a) to offer a sociological perspective (i.e. ‘thinking sociologically’), and b) to expand our understanding of sociological thinking.
• Sociological thinking can be developed by examining the periphery of the core.
• Context matters in understanding any phenomenon under the sociological microscope.
• Sociological thinking allows many different viewpoints to coexist within a larger structure and that it respects pluralism.
• Sociological thinking is about developing or providing a perspective to examine social nuances.
• Sociological thinking should act as a means for social transformation.
•  Social inquiry serves as a methodology for the social sciences and humanities. It deals with the philosophy of social science and the workings of the social world – giving a way for understanding both the biosphere and the sociosphere.