Sociological theory. Quantitative and qualitative methods.

The sociological knowledge is developed through the use of methods for the collection of empirical data. These methods are qualitative and quantitative. This essay analyses the methods of social research with reference to their use in empirical research and sociological theories. Theories represent constraints and opportunities which guide sociological research to the identification of methods for the collection and analysis of empirical data; sociological theories are sources for hypotheses of research and models to interpret the reality scientifically observed.