This paper evaluates both inductive and
deductive methods with respect to theory building
particularly in the social sciences. The former is an
approach for drawing conclusions by proceeding from
the specific to the general, while as per the latter, a
hypothesis is usually developed and subsequently tested
based on further evidence. This paper also evaluates
nomothetic approaches in opposition to idiographic or
stand-alone approaches with respect to theorization or
theory-formulation as well, and recommends that a
combination of the two be used. It also discusses the
application of grounded theory in social sciences
research besides other approaches to theorization as
well. While choosing a appropriate research method is
the prerogative of the researcher, based on the research
question involved, the researcher’s personal inclinations,
besides time and cost considerations, this paper hopes to
generate awareness of more globalized and inclusive
approaches to scientific endeavour. This is as such, our
fifth paper on the philosophy of science, and extends our
earlier work which primarily focused on the importance
of the social duties of every researcher and scholar, the
principle of exceptionism or the sociological ninety ten
rule, the certainty uncertainty principle, and the
importance of cross-cultural research design. This paper
is also therefore the logical culmination of all our earlier
endeavours, and forms an integral part of our
“Globalization of science” movement, with particular
emphasis on the social sciences.