A2: T+M Topic two

Question 1

Which Sociologists believe soc should be value free and why

Answer 1

Comte and Durkheim as not including values leads to progressivism, If we mimic science then sociology will appear to be more of a respectable academic discipline

Question 2

What is progressivism

Answer 2

Progressing in research and becoming closer to testing hypothesis

Question 3

Which sociologist believes that values do have a place in research but not always

Answer 3

Weber

Question 4

Weber: Should we use values as a guide to research

Answer 4

Yes (values should be included as sociologists actively choose their research topics which allows them to be more passionate and put in more effort

Question 5

Weber: Should we use values in data collection and hypothesis testing

Answer 5

No ( should be value free at this point to not include bias, if values were included it would be unethical and end up with false data)

Question 6

Weber: Should we use values in the interpretation of data

Answer 6

Yes (Theoretical standpoint is important when interpreting data, as it provides a framework to understanding)

Question 7

Value laden =

Answer 7

Including values

Question 8

Should values be included according to committed sociologists

Answer 8

Yes

Question 9

Name committed sociologists

Answer 9

Gouldner,Myrdal,Becker

Question 10

Why does Gouldner want values to be included in research

Answer 10

Prior to 1950s sociologists used their values to investigate problems choosing what they want, Late 20th century sociologists become problem takers
It is impossible to be value free as:

Impossible- bound to happen as sociologists have emotions which cant be detached

Undesirable- Without values dictating what to research, sociologists will be ‘‘sold to the highest bidder’’ so will lack passion

Question 11

What does Myrdal say about values

Answer 11

We shouldnt spell out values like weeber does but we should take sides, he argues it is not possible to keep values out of research

Question 12

What does Becker say about values

Answer 12

Sociologists always take sides, used to be of the powerful, we should take sides of the underdogs

(Goffman supports this and says we should use qualitative data to achieve verstehen

Question 13

A03:

Answer 13

Is it really that simple to be value free or value laden

Question 14

what does relativism say about values

Answer 14

There are plural truths and none are more credible (metanarrative)