Handbook

Through a sequence of readings, seminars, and discussions, this course will introduce you to the intellectual foundations of research. The goal of this course is to provide you with a basic working knowledge of systematic and rigorous research in the humanities and social sciences. A sound understanding of research is underpinned by an understanding of: the intellectual traditions that inform debates (i.e. research disciplines in the humanities and social sciences and cross-disciplinary work); how knowledge is produced (i.e. the economic, social, political and human motivations that drive discoveries and innovations); and what research might be able to achieve in democratic contexts, according to sound ethical principles (i.e. ethics of research, management of knowledge in a just society). Upon completion, you will be able to understand debates about research methods, epistemology, paradigm wars, the social and political contexts of research, and the contributions of the humanities and social sciences to the improvement of human and environmental well-being. These insights will help you develop capabilities and skills for producing thoughtful and impactful research.