Practising Sociology: The Role of Theory in Applied Research

The article argues that a degree in sociology provides academic qualification rather than professional qualification, and hence sociology cannot be practised. The practice of sociology lacks scientific legitimacy and ethical legitimacy. Even though it cannot be practised, sociology can be applied, in the sense that it can be used in various fields. It informs decisions and actions either by using existing sociological knowledge and theories or by generating new knowledge through conducting sociological research. The article highlights that sociologists are taught in universities to conduct fundamental research rather than applied research, that they conduct fundamental research regardless of context, and thus, they do not truly respond to the knowledge needs of the beneficiaries. This article presents the necessity of a clearer methodological distinction between fundamental and applied research and proposes a clarification of the role theory plays in the latter. It emphasises the idea that theory is not only not prioritised but is also not even mandatory in applied research.