Which of the following explains the difference between conceptual and empirical research?

1. AThe former relates to abstract ideas or theory; the latter relies on experience or observation alone
2. BThe former measures quantity; the latter concerns qualitative phenomena
3. CThe former includes surveys and fact-finding; the latter uses existing information for critical evaluation
4. DThe former aims at an immediate problem; the latter at generalisations and theory

Pick an option to check yourself, or open the answer below.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. The former relates to abstract ideas or theory; the latter relies on experience or observation alone

Explanation

Following Kothari, conceptual research develops or reinterprets concepts and theories, while empirical research is data-based and verified by observation or experiment. The other options describe quantitative/qualitative, descriptive/analytical and applied/fundamental research.