A key point that can be noted about the just discussed research is that these studies, like all research, are considered searches for credible explanations of observed phenomena (see: Curd & Cover, 1998). But in order for an explanation to be considered credible, the information on which it is based must be derived from methods that allow for confidence in the accuracy of the obtained information (Godfrey-Smith, 2003). In this regard, philosophy of science has pointed out that there are several problematic aspects associated with the scientific method in general and social sciences research (the nature of most criminology research) in particular.Godfrey-Smith, P. (2003). An introduction to the philosophy of science. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. Siegel, L. J. (2002). Criminology. (8th ed.) Florence, KY: Wadsworth Publishing. It will be remembered that the general conclusion formulated, using scientific methods, to study domestic violence and abuse and various sociodemographic variables was that certain of these variables operate to increase the risk of domestic violence occurring in a family. Given that there are serious logical questions concerning standards of proof, inherently illogical assumptions regarding certain elements of the scientific method, it seems reasonable to state that Philosophy of Science, as a discipline clearly weakens the degree to which confidence can be placed in the foregoing conclusions. |
