Chapter 1 Flashcards
What is empiricism?
The use of systematic observation to test a theory
What is a theory?
An interrelated set of concepts used to explain data and make predictions
What is a hypothesis?
Testable predictions about the relationship btw 1 or more predictors & their outcome (derived from a theory)
How do theories & hypotheses differ?
A hypothesis is an educated guess or prediction that can be tested, while a theory is a well-supported explanation based on extensive evidence & testing.
What makes a good theory?
Falsifiable, Explains a lot, Parsimonious, & Productivity
What makes a theory falsifiable?
Makes testable, specific predictions
What makes a theory Parsimonious?
Simplicity; “fewer working parts” preferred over more complex ones, when they have explanatory power
What makes a theory productive?
Leads researchers to many new findings & makes prediciotns about what ought to happen
What is the basic theory to data cycle?
Can be used to evaluate & conduct research; Observe, make theory, and make predictions (hypothesis) based on theory.
What are Merton’s norms?
What science strives to be (Universal, communal, disinterested, & skeptical)
What does Merton’s Universal norm mean?
Claims should be evaluated by merit
What does Merton’s Communal norm mean?
Science is created by the scientific community & should belong to that community
What does Merton’s Disinterested norm mean?
Scientists should focus on knowledge-creating & shouldn’t be informed by conviction, idealism, profits, or politics
What does Merton’s skeptical norm mean?
Scientists should question everything, even their own ideas & widely accepted ideas.
3 categories of research:
Basic, translational, & applied
