is sociology value free?

Question 1

values mean…

Answer 1

the idea and beliefs about general principles the researcher holds

Question 2

what perspective believes that sociology can be value free?

Answer 2

positivists

Question 3

Comte’s theory

Answer 3

he argues that it can be value free as it studies the empirical and objective social facts. also that at each stage of research it should be value free.

Question 4

positivists believe…

Answer 4

that Sociology can be value free because they are uncovering the phenomena that exists totally externally to the individual so these social facts can be observed objectively by following the scientific procedure

Question 5

was Durkheim research value free?

Answer 5

no, he had his reasons to why he wanted to study suicide because he lost a friend to that matter

Question 6

who argues that values should influence data just a little

Answer 6

Weber

Question 7

Weber’s theory

Answer 7

he agrees with positivism to an extent but he argues that sociologists will always use their values in choosing a topic. for weber, this is a balancing act as sociologists should recognise their subject has values and should seek subjective views at same time.

Question 8

Weber 4 stages of the research process

Answer 8

1- values as a guide to research
2- data collection and hypothesis testing must remain objective and unbiased
3- values in the interpretation of data
4- values and sociologists as a citizen so must take moral responsibility for harm

Question 9

what is committed sociology?

Answer 9

openly take sides by representing values and interests

Question 10

“who’s side are we on?”

Answer 10

the interactionalist Becker argues that since all knowledge is political the task for sociologists is simply to choose sides and sociology should always side with the disadvantaged

Question 11

Becker believes…

Answer 11

the best thing researchers can do is state all the values which allows the audience to be aware and consider for themselves.

Question 12

A03- Becker

Answer 12

a way to resolve the research values from interfering is choose the topic and the someone else do the research or peer assess

Question 13

Gouldner argues…

Answer 13

a Marxist he argues that it is impossible to be free from value judgement. he believes 1- sociologists cannot ignore their values when doing research and 2- need to hold onto their values or they risk “selling out” to the highest bidders when conducting research

Question 14

postmodernists on values

Answer 14

value freedom is impossible and undesirable. everyone has values and influences. researchers should acknowledge this

Question 15

feminists on values

Answer 15

critical of “value free” as claims its sexblind, serves an ideological justification for subordination of women-oakley

Question 16

feminist response to male bias

Answer 16

bias can be corrected by more studies on men and radical views suggests what is needed is sociology for women by women

Question 17

value freedom means…

Answer 17

the ability of the researchers to keep their own personal biases and opinions out of the research they are conducting

Question 18

value