Abstract: Taking social stratification research for an example， this paper illustrates the following points： (1) Accounting for the reality is the fundamental premise for sociological research to be scientific； (2) The research conclusion reflects the reality， the validity of which is determined by the research method； and (3) The research paradigm guides the choice and application of the research method. The paradigm， the method， and the conclusion all will be congruent to each other on the basis of the reality.

Key words: sociological research method, research paradigm, social stratification