Strengths and weaknesses of basic and applied research

Drawing on the readings and articles you have analyzed, differentiate between basic and applied research providing advantages and disadvantages of both.

Applied research is a research methodology that creates practical solutions for specific problems while basic research is an approach to research that seeks to expand knowledge in a field of study. These two key distinctions create unique strengths and weaknesses as it relates to the application of each method.

For one, applied research is much more applicable to real world problems. As such, it can be used to provide an immediate benefit to society in the form of new products, goods, or services. Society can therefore benefit as these products can help improve the overall quality of life for all involved. Applied research also that the ability to become much more profitable that basic research. Through the introduction of new products, the research findings can help increase profitability of a particular organization. In addition, applied research is much more focused and objective than basic research. Due to this objective nature of the methodology, applied research is more unbiased that basic research. This occurs as applied research is often based on empirical evidence based primarily on scientific research methodologies. In addition, depending on the outcome of the research, the findings are often subjected to strict regulatory and other forms of oversight (Babbie, 2007).

Basic research is unique in the sense that it can result in “breakthroughs” in particular fields of study. As a result, the methodology is heavy based on curiosity. This curiosity is a strong advantage as it allows researchers to follow passions and ideas that they may not have otherwise thought about. Applied research is much narrower and as a result, cannot be as fulfilling as researching elements that the individual is genuinely passionate about. This curiosity is what often leads to “breakthroughs” or “Discoveries” that can later be adapted for much better human understanding. The disadvantage of this approach is that many of the findings can not be immediately used for commercial use. As a result, the profit incentive or motive is not as accessible under this form of research. Likewise, this form of research may not derive an actual solution to a problem or create a new product. The benefits from this research therefore may not be felt throughout society as is the case with applied research. Although “understanding” is increases, the benefits would not accrue to the average American looking to improve their life or social standing (Denscombe, 2007).

From my readings and analysis applied research appears to be the best research methodology for society. Although the focus is narrow, the research is often driven by the needs and demands of society. This is a very critical element, as the money used throughout the research process will eventually lead to benefits that are derived by society. Healthcare breakthroughs in particular, benefit society in a litany of ways. The research used to find a vaccine for COVID-19 has potentially saved millions of lives. In addition, pharmaceutical companies have benefited from higher profits. Applied research has resulting in a “win-win” situation in which society obtains the goods and services they demand, businesses who provide these services profit, and society as a whole improves. Basic research does not consistently produce these results. As a result, in certain areas, financial capital is wasted as the benefits of research do not directly benefit society or can not be monetized to further improve the quality of life for society. Likewise, although an increase in understanding is very useful, the research itself is difficult to maintain as it relies on donations, grants, gifts, or other tax payer funded programs. With applied research and the profit mechanism, organizations can self-fund their research without having to burden the tax payer to do so (Dooley, 2001).