Statement (a): Ex Post Facto Research in Social Science

Is it descriptive? Yes. 'Ex post facto' is a Latin term meaning "from the after the fact". This type of research involves studying phenomena after they have already occurred. The researcher observes the effects or outcomes and tries to identify potential causes or relationships retrospectively. Since it focuses on describing the existing situation and relationships between variables without manipulating them, it falls under the broad category of descriptive research studies.

Conclusion: Statement (a) is correct.

Statement (b): Aim of Applied Research

Purpose: Applied research is conducted specifically to address and solve practical problems. These problems could be immediate issues faced by individuals, organizations, or society at large. The goal is to find workable solutions and generate knowledge that can be directly applied in real-world contexts.

Conclusion: Statement (b) is correct.

Statement (c): Empirical Research Characteristics

Foundation: Empirical research is fundamentally based on observable evidence and data collected through senses or instruments. It relies on data collected through direct or indirect observation, surveys, experiments, or other means.

Verification: The key feature of empirical research is that its findings can be verified. This verification happens through repeatable observations or experiments. If others conduct similar research following the same methodology, they should ideally arrive at similar conclusions, confirming the results.

Conclusion: Statement (c) is correct.

Statement (d): Fundamental Research Methodology

Objective: Fundamental research, also known as basic or pure research, aims to expand the foundational knowledge and understanding of theories, principles, and phenomena. Its primary goal is discovery and the advancement of theoretical knowledge, not necessarily solving an immediate practical problem.

Role of Existing Facts: While fundamental research builds upon existing theories and facts, its core activity is not typically described as making a 'critical evaluation of the material already available'. Instead, it often involves formulating new hypotheses, developing new theories, or exploring new areas of inquiry. Critical evaluation of existing information is more characteristic of literature reviews or specific types of historical or secondary research.

Conclusion: Statement (d) is incorrect.