COMPARATIVE METHOD Meaning and
Definition
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The comparative method is a research approach used in various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, political science, and linguistics, to analyze and compare different social phenomena or factors across multiple cases or contexts. It involves identifying similarities and differences among these cases to gain insights, as well as to identify patterns and trends that may exist between them.
This method is primarily aimed at understanding the relationship between variables or factors by systematically examining various cases. It involves selecting or creating a sample of cases that are representative and diverse enough to capture the range of variation in the phenomenon being studied. The cases can be countries, cultures, communities, organizations, or individuals, depending on the research question.
By comparing multiple cases, researchers can identify commonalities, variations, and relationships that may not be apparent when studying a single case. This allows for the identification of causal relationships, the testing of hypotheses, and the exploration of generalizations or theories.
The comparative method typically involves the use of qualitative and quantitative data, collected through various research methods such as interviews, observations, surveys, and document analysis. These data are then analyzed and interpreted to draw meaningful conclusions or establish theoretical frameworks that can explain the similarities, differences, or relationships observed.
Overall, the comparative method facilitates a systematic and rigorous analysis of social phenomena by leveraging comparisons across cases, leading to a deeper understanding of social processes, mechanisms, and dynamics.
Etymology of COMPARATIVE METHOD
The word "comparative" is derived from the Latin word "comparare", which means "to compare" or "to make equal". It is a combination of the prefix "com-" meaning "together" or "with", and the verb "parare", which means "to prepare" or "to arrange". In this context, the word "comparative" indicates the act of comparing two or more things.
The word "method" comes from the Latin word "methodus", which is derived from the Greek words "meth-" meaning "with", and "hodos" meaning "way" or "road". Consequently, "method" refers to a systematic or organized way of achieving or doing something.
