Exploring the Diverse Research Fields of PhDs in Social Sciences and Humanities

The realm of PhD research in social sciences and humanities is vast and multifaceted, offering a myriad of opportunities for academic exploration and contribution. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse areas of study that PhD candidates may undertake, drawing insights from real-world examples to illustrate the breadth and depth of research conducted in these fields.

Introduction to PhD Research in Social Sciences and Humanities

PhD candidates in social sciences and humanities can pursue research in a wide array of subjects. These include, but are not limited to, classical studies, gender studies, philosophy, sociology, history, and anthropology. The field is deeply intertwined with contemporary and historical issues, making it ever-evolving and dynamic.

Real-World Examples of PhD Research

To better understand the scope of PhD research in these areas, let us delve into a few personal anecdotes and academic examples.

Classical Studies

One compelling example involves a PhD project in Classics. The researcher focused on a 13th-century Greek text about the Byzantine Emperor Palaiologos and a war he was involved in. This project consisted of translating the text and providing a historical commentary based on other historical evidences. This type of research not only enhances our understanding of historical texts but also contributes to the broader study of medieval history.

Gender Studies

A contemporary example comes from a gender studies PhD project. The researcher examined the representation of women in science fiction by editors, publishers, and the industry at large. This study was particularly relevant as it addressed the underrepresentation of female voices in a predominantly male-dominated genre. Such research is vital in advocating for gender equality in the literary and publishing world.

Oral Poetry and Malaysian Culture

A more culturally rich example involves a research master's project. The researcher delved into the performance of oral poetry at weddings in a specific region of Malaysia. This study involved in-depth fieldwork, including recording and translating the poems, interviewing poets, and contextualizing the work within the broader oral traditions and Malaysian society. Such research provides valuable insights into the cultural and social practices of specific communities.

A Few Academic Examples

I recently completed a course in Sociology as an undergraduate. My lecturer discussed a variety of PhD research topics conducted by their professors, all of whom are highly esteemed in their fields. Here are a few examples:

Epistemology

One professor specializes in Indian and Western epistemology, which includes the study of the nature of knowledge and its acquisition. This research delves into the epistemology of Indian schools of thought as well as advanced Western epistemology, covering concepts from coherentism and foundationalism to pre-Socratic philosophy.

Analytical and Continental Philosophy

Another professor focuses on analytical and continental philosophy, exploring the relationship between language and reality. This research addresses questions such as how language can be used to understand and gauge the world around us.

Gandhian Philosophy

A third professor has written a PhD on the philosophy of non-violence (satyagraha) and the life of Mahatma Gandhi, providing a foundational understanding of this important figure in Indian and global history.

Tribal Religions of North East India

The fourth professor's research explores tribal religions from a social, economic, and anthropological perspective, offering a unique insight into the religious practices of these communities.

Hinduism

The fifth professor's research is extensive, covering every aspect of Hinduism, from its fundamental concepts like satkaryavada and different schools of Vedanta to its philosophical aspects as described in the Vedic texts.

Ethics in Various Fields

The sixth professor's research focuses on ethics and its applications in different fields such as business, daily life, law, and the environment. This research aims to define and understand what is right and wrong in diverse contexts.

Contemporary Thinkers

The seventh professor explores the works of contemporary Indian thinkers such as Swami Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, and J Krishnamurthy, providing an in-depth analysis of their contributions to Indian philosophy and thought.

Metaphysics

The eighth professor's research delves into metaphysics, particularly its relevance to religion and ethics. This includes both Western and Indian metaphysics.

Research and Methodology

The ninth professor's research focuses on research and methodology, examining the methods and processes employed during the research itself.

Political Philosophy

Lastly, the tenth professor's research explores political philosophy, including the works of key thinkers such as Hegel, Karl Marx, and John Locke.

In summary, the world of PhD research in social sciences and humanities is incredibly rich and diverse. Whether it is delving into historical texts, studying contemporary issues, or exploring cultural practices, there are endless opportunities for academic exploration and contribution. As we have seen, the scope of research is vast, catering to a wide range of interests and providing a platform for scholars to address pressing contemporary and historical questions.