Issues Revolving Research Methods Flashcards
What are the interests and values of the researcher?
Regardless of the sociologists’ commitment, they must conduct a fair and balanced inquiry and can’t allow personal/political values to affect what’s disclosed to them.
Some researchers are attached to a subject feeling some injustice/inequality needs correction.
What are current debates in the academic world revolving research methods?
Researchers may be influenced by what is currently fashionable in the academic world.
How does funding affect the research method?
Universities and economic and social research councils are funders of most research methods.
The values of those providing the financial part may also affect the direction and tone of the research.
Charities and think-tanks that specialise in particular interests are more likely to sponsor research.
Some funding agencies have no agenda and base research on merit.
How do sociologists get access to research methods?
Some groups have the power to resist the attention of sociologists, thus would be exempt from research.
Often, sociologists are interested in closed institutions that are difficult to study (e.g. gangs)
Powerful people can use their authority to deny people access to study.
How do sociologists get access to gate-keepers?
Deviant group studies should be thought of for ethical and personal safety reasons for the sociologist.
Gate-keepers are used as someone with the relevant connection to a set group of people that are often difficult to approach.
