What is the primary goal of basic research?

The primary goal of basic research is to explore theoretical questions out of curiosity. This type of research is fundamentally driven by a desire to expand knowledge and understanding of underlying principles without a direct focus on practical applications. Researchers conducting basic research often seek to answer questions about how social behaviors, cognitive processes, or emotional responses work, aiming to build a foundational understanding that can later inform applied research.

In contrast, other forms of research, such as applied research, are primarily concerned with solving specific, practical problems or developing treatments based on existing knowledge. While analyzing population trends can provide valuable insights, it typically serves a different purpose than the exploratory nature of basic research, which seeks to uncover how and why certain phenomena occur. The distinction lies in the focus on knowledge development rather than immediate application, making the exploration of theoretical questions the hallmark of basic research.