The inductive method applied in scientific research in legal sciences: an analysis of its feasibility in academic studies

Abstract

For the development of scientific works, it is necessary to initially define the object and the most appropriate approach method. For this, it is necessary to consider the particularities of the universe in which the research object is inserted. Regarding the use of the inductive method, the question that emerges is to know what are the obstacles or limitations in scientific investigation, approach and development of research in the legal sciences? The hypothesis is to affirm that there are methods of approach that are less suitable for research in legal sciences, the inductive method being one of them. Thus, the article: (i) describes the inductive method; (ii) identifies the main criticisms of the use of this method; and (iii) raises obstacles or limitations in the use of the inductive method in legal science research. The study uses the hypothetical-deductive method of approach and concludes that the inductive method is not recommended in the development of scientific research in the field of legal sciences.