Essay on Evaluation of Research Concepts in Sociology

Currently, various fields have embraced the concept of research from education sector to corporate. Considering the educational areas, conducting a successful research remains an imperative field to establish new ideas, knowledge, and skills. Although, there exists no specific process to follow in research, there are core stages crucial to its success. Most importantly are the first steps and the aspects of assumptions and bias which are discussed in this paper. While first step in research involves developing a research question assumptions and bias in drug research revolves around key stakeholders in the industry

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In students guide to research, the first step is identified as the framing of the research question. This step entails identifying the specific areas or element that requires further study. Essential to note is that a research question defines the effectiveness of the study. Seldom will a poor research question yield profound study results. In sociology, the main factor to consider is selecting a research question that excites the reader and also one whose information is readily available and important to the society. There are various sources where the research question can emanate from. These include factors directly affecting the researcher or from observation. Currently, most of the research questions in sociology emanate from policies and issues affecting the society such as violence and drugs abuse.

Considering critical thinking as a major element in research, the skill involves describing a concept in different dimensions which do not coincide with the norm. It entails the ability to analyze and select statements according to the evidence presented and authenticity of the availed information. There are six key elements in critical thinking among them assumptions and bias. These include integrating own beliefs and taking sides in the research. Also, assumptions will involve disregarding other applicable aspects of the study or facts to avert complexity.

Applying that concept of assumptions and bias to the Washington post on drugs research; the two can be described using examples. One of the major assumptions is that of the doctors who consider most of the drugs developed in research funded by the industry are good. As a result, these doctors will prescribe them although they are still under trial. It was also assumed that the investigators of the Avandia patients had missed the heart problems in their study. The impact of the drug in regards to heart diseases was also assumed. Considering the aspect of bias, it includes organizations promoting their research and drugs while making them look better through tactics such as selecting like-minded academics to do the study. Another bias is centered on the fact that industry-sponsored research is 3.6 times concluded favorably as compared to that funded by the government and non-profit groups. Corporate bias is also evident in the supporting of research where previously, academics used to contribute to the quality of trials but currently, for-profit companies dictate the terms. Personal bias on drug industry influence is based on the type of company developing a particular medicine. Essential to note is that a drug developed by Glaxo is likely to be adopted by most medical facilities as compared to those developed by learning institutions. It is apparent that these private sectors invest a lot in the development of these drugs which reflects on why they are first considered as compared to those from the government.

In conclusion, research remains a major topic in various current realms such as education and corporate sector. In sociology, research applies to address major concerns in the society. Conducting research involves various steps with the first one being framing a research question. Critical thinking is also imperative in every research which involves aspects such as assumptions and bias. The above discussion is centered on these elements of research while referring to the drugs research Washington post. While some of the assumptions include doctors ignoring the impact of the drugs, bias involved private organizations being preferred to those owned by the government.