Applied social sciences, action research and the returning of inquiry findings

Abstract

This paper aims to highlight some connections between the applied social sciences, action research, and the returning of inquiry findings. Usually, the applicability of a social science is defined by its openness to the complexity of (psycho-) social change as described by the intervention design meant to trigger this change. We will also see how the social sciences collaborate with action research. This is mainly the case in social psychology, a field in which this orientation is largely contained. Through this study we would like to foster the possibility that the applicability of any social science may be strengthened by action research as a specific form of intervention and change. The returning of inquiry findings to the subjects may also be linked to action research as it focuses on involving the subjects of the research in the debate concerning the results. The returing of inquiry findings can be strengthened by connecting it during the research process to the potential of a social science.