THE APPLICATION OF THE EPISTEMOLOGY OF SOCRATES, PLATO, AND ARISTOTLE FOR DOCUMENT-BASED QUALITATIVE RESEARCH

Abstract

Abstract

        This research article has three objectives: 1) to study the principles and theories of epistemology from Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle; 2) to explore the process of qualitative documentary research; and 3) to apply the epistemology of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle to qualitative documentary research. This is a qualitative research study based on documentary analysis. The findings of the study reveal that:

1. Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle have both similar and differing epistemological ideas. Socrates emphasized the search for knowledge through dialogue and self-awareness. Plato believed that true knowledge comes from recollecting the forms that exist in the metaphysical world, while Aristotle emphasized observation and experience as the sources of knowledge. These ideas laid the foundational principles for subsequent studies in the humanities, social sciences, and sciences.


2. The process of qualitative documentary research includes the main steps of defining the research problem, reviewing literature, designing the research, collecting data, analyzing data, summarizing, discussing results, and making recommendations. Key challenges in qualitative documentary research include issues of document validity, limitations in data access, interpretation, and document selection.


3. The application of the epistemology of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle to qualitative documentary research involves key research processes, such as using questions to probe deeper into the information within documents. The philosophical ideas of each thinker can be adapted to improve the accuracy of data interpretation and understanding of the meanings in documents. For instance, Socrates' method of questioning stimulates critical thinking and uncovers new knowledge, while Plato's theory of ideal forms helps enhance the precision in document analysis and interpretation by offering a broader range of perspectives. Aristotle's emphasis on logic and reasoning allows researchers to use deductive or inductive reasoning to analyze and differentiate documents based on logical principles.

Keywords:   Epistemology, Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Qualitative research