Chapter 2 - Summary - Sociological Research Flashcards
1
Q
What is the relationship between theory and research?
A
- sociologists move back and forth from theory to research
- rarely begins with just theory or data
- Theory gives meaning to research; research helps support theory
2
Q
What are the main steps in the sociological research process?
A
- Theories generate hyportheses
- hypotheses lead to observations
- observations lead to generalizations
- generalizations are used to support, refute, or modify the theory
3
Q
What is the difference between deductive and inductive research?
A
- deductive model begins with theory
- inductive model begins with observations of the social world
4
Q
How has research contributed to our understanding of altruism?
A
shown that a high proportion of people are helpful to others, despite media emphasis on bad-news stories
5
Q
Why is a code of ethics for sociological research necessary?
A
weighs societal benefits of research against potential physical and emotional costs to participants
6
Q
What are ethical principals of sociological research?
A
- providing informed consent
- ensuring subjects are not harmed
- maintaining confidentiality unless respondent waives right
- ensuring participation in research is voluntary