interpretivism

Question 1

what do interpretivists study

Answer 1

interpretivists study the individual as they believe sociology should analyse individuals and small groups to find the meanings they apply to the world

Question 2

beliefs about society

Answer 2

believe society is dependant on us - the opposite to positivists
believe the individuals shape and create society

Question 3

weber - general ideas

Answer 3

acknowledged that individual acts are shaped by their social context but that social institutions are shaped by human actions
- Webers methodology stresses social action rather than structural explanation

Question 4

versten

weber

Answer 4

versten is empathetic understanding
. it sees the individual as a person acting from reasons and in accordance with fundamental values
. he wanted to understand motives and meanings of behaviour

Question 5

what is the simplified way of looking at verstehen?

Answer 5

verstehen is essentially putting yourself in another persons shoes - what would they do if acting rationally

Question 6

identify a problem with verstehen

Answer 6

1. in some situations peope dont think rationally so to think what they would do rationally would be wrong
2. for some situations it is impossible to put yourself into the same situation or scenario eg a terrorist bomber
3. verstehen is useful but on its own is not enough

Question 7

what data is associated with interpretivists?

Answer 7

qualatitive

Question 8

what is qualitative data and an example

Answer 8

qualitative data is non-numerical data such as an observation or interview

Question 9

why do interpretivists like qualitative data?

Answer 9

it allows them to investigate individuals meanings and values