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and scientists always keep on moving forward in the endless journey of exploring nature, matter and mind. Systematic approach for this kind of exploration is always a necessity.
The systematic search for facts and information on an issue or a topic has been given the name of research. As topics and issues can be different, therefore there cannot be universality on how the research will be conducted. Research in literature and languages are different from research in natural and biological sciences or history and social sciences. In this article certain philosophical issues pertaining to the database research in social sciences alone has be discussed. In this context relevance of Anekantavāda, Syādvāda and Patanjali view of nature of proof has been explained. Problems and issues of research in other subject or areas are not the subject matter of this article. In social sciences, research is done to achieve one or more of the following purposes:
(i) to establish relationships among variables.
(ii) to validate or modify any given relationship.
(iii) to pass on statistical judgement on a statements pertaining to any universe or population.
(iv) to find out causes responsible for a phenomena and,
(v) to make forecast.
To serve the above purposes, data are needed. Data are analysed with the help of statistical and quantitative techniques; the findings thus obtained after statistical and quantitative analysis are examined and interpret by the researcher to draw certain conclusions and to make recommendations. Thus, the conclusions of any research are largely the collective outcome of data, statistical tools and researchers' mindset. Sources of Error
In all the above three-data, statistical tools and quantitative techniques and researchers' mindset, certain error is inbuilt. Here we distinguish between "Error" and "Mistake." Error is that deviation from the exact or correct finding which is due to the system. Researchers can only be aware of this but cannot remove it, whereas mistake is due to the researcher. It can be removed or eliminated by taking additional care.
Let us try to understand how errors creep in research findings and conclusions.
Data
Experiments and observations are ultimate sources of data. In experiments, ultimately certain kind of observations are made, hence observations are of paramount importance in the context of data creation and collection. Our observations are constrained by the limitation of our senses. We cannot see, touch, feel or smell all existences even when they are there. If we are telescopic and microscopic both, the world eye view will be all together different. Similarly if we can hear all the frequencies and wavelengths of sounds present in the surrounding, our understanding of the existence will be different. Thus, whatever we observe, listen or smell are not hundred percent exact. We try to 66 Arhat Vacana, 19 (3), 2007
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