r/PoliticalScience • • 19d ago

Research help Sociology

Hi! I’m planning to conduct a research project and I have a methodological question. I would like to study the influence of gentrification on social polarization, but I’m not sure whether “social polarization” would be the most appropriate variable, or whether “social cohesion” would be more suitable.

I’m also considering using triangulation, combining semi-structured interviews, non-participant observation, and content analysis. However, I’m not sure whether I should also conduct interviews with people who have been displaced from the area.

I would really appreciate some advice on how you would approach this research and what methodological choices you would make.

I should mention that this is only for a university presentation and is not intended for publication.

Thank you!

2 Upvotes

5 comments sorted by

1

u/john09999999888865 19d ago

Hey man, be problem oriented, not discipline bounded. It's a thesis not a peer review. Do what God and mom and dad put you here to do

1

u/Full-Imagination-938 18d ago

You are talking about rich and poor people, social is too vague

1

u/Full-Imagination-938 18d ago

You are talking about rich and poor people, social is too vague

1

u/Ambitious_vision 18d ago

I would use “social cohesion” instead of “social polarization.” It’s clearer, easier to observe, and fits your methods better. Your triangulation plan is solid. If you can, interview at least a couple of displaced residents too. Their views show what’s lost and keep the study from only hearing from people who stayed.