Critical Features of Human Phenomena

In evaluating the limitations and strengths of quantitative and qualitative research approaches, Hathaway (1995 in Schulze, 2003) states that "Empirical-analytical research systematically overlooks critical features of human phenomena, and it results in the fact that their data is often of a limited value. Such features include the definition of human action in specific settings, the human interest of the actor, and the historical context of the situation". Hence, this approach has often been criticized as being dehumanising. Critics of quantitative studies concluded that these studies could result in restriction of our views about human beings because they concentrate on repetitive and predictable aspects of human behaviour (Cohen and Manion, 1996). Qualitative research techniques could try to overcome these shortcomings (Schulze, 2003).