There are many sources for error in social research. For instance, a keen researcher may discover cases of either over-generalization or selective observation by a respondent. Although the problem can be addressed by attempts to refine such results, a more profitable alternative would be paying closer attention to patterns of the language used to respond to the researcher. These aspects are central to the success of social science research and cannot be taken lightly. This essay has discussed the importance of language, culture and communication in social research intended to promote development.
Research is a social enterprise that makes use of linguistic and cultural tools.
The objectivity, validity and reliability of findings depend upon the researcher's ability to operate effectively within the confines of culture and language. A close relationship exists between habits of language use and thought processes as well as between socio-cultural mechanisms and the nature of human language. Therefore, problems in social research cannot be resolved solely through the use of non-African languages that currently dominate the literature on African development. The end results for African development might be better than what we have now. The Politics of Language in African Literature.