Lecture 1 - Introduction, navigating social science Flashcards
What is the main focus of the Philosophy of Science course?
To explore meta-level questions about scientific methods and conclusions.
This includes understanding the nature of knowledge, the design of studies, and the differences between social sciences and other sciences.
What are the three big meta-questions in Philosophy of Science?
- How certain can we be about scientific conclusions?
- What kind of world and knowledge do we deal with in business administration?
- How to design good studies?
These questions guide the inquiry into the reliability and validity of scientific methods.
How do social sciences differ from natural sciences?
Social sciences focus on human behavior and societal structures, which are often more complex and variable than natural phenomena.
This complexity makes the methods and conclusions in social sciences distinct from those in fields like physics.
What does it mean to claim that science is objective?
It implies that scientific findings are based on unbiased observations and methods, not influenced by personal beliefs or motivations.
Objectivity is a critical assumption in scientific inquiry.
What competencies does studying Philosophy of Science facilitate?
- More realistic understanding of social science and ‘truth’
- Ability to assess claims in studies and media
- Understanding of research designs and their implications
- Skills to transition from correlation to causation
- Being an informed skeptic
These competencies are essential for citizens, academics, and professionals.
Fill in the blank: The term _______ refers to the overall framework to collect and analyze data in research.
[Research design]
What is selection bias?
A systematic error due to the way data is collected, affecting the validity of conclusions drawn.
An example is using only data from planes that returned from missions, which may not represent those that didn’t.
True or False: Random selection can eliminate selection bias.
False
Even random selection may not account for biases in the data collection process.
What is the significance of randomized controlled trials in research?
They are considered the ‘gold standard’ because they help establish causal relationships by controlling for confounding variables.
This method enhances the reliability of scientific conclusions.
What are the key insights from Ritchie (2020) regarding the scientific process?
Science is often messier and more complex than idealized models suggest; it involves real-world challenges and variability.
This contrasts with traditional views of science as a straightforward process.
What does disinterestedness in science imply?
Scientists should be motivated solely by the pursuit of truth, without personal gain influencing their work.
This principle is essential for maintaining scientific integrity.
What is communality in the context of scientific knowledge?
Scientific knowledge should be shared and evaluated based on its quality, not the identity of the researcher.
This fosters collaboration and collective advancement in science.
What are some common research methods taught in the Philosophy of Science course?
- Experiments
- Qualitative interviews
- Quantitative surveys
- Simulations
These methods are essential for conducting rigorous research in social sciences.
What is the purpose of the study cafes mentioned in the course?
To facilitate discussions and reflections on research designs and methodologies.
These sessions encourage collaborative learning and critical thinking.
Fill in the blank: The Philosophy of Science course contributes to understanding how _______ assumptions shape research approaches.
[Philosophical]
How can one move from correlation to causal insights in research?
By using appropriate research designs and methodologies that allow for causal inference.
This often involves controlled experiments or longitudinal studies.
What is the messy scientific process?
Contrast to the idealized science models.
Refers to the complexities and imperfections in actual scientific practice.
What are the Mertonian norms of science?
Universalism, Disinterestedness, Communality, Organized Skepticism.
These norms describe the idealized principles that should govern scientific practice.
True or False: Universalism means science is evaluated based on the identity of the researcher.
False.
Universalism evaluates science solely on the quality of ideas.
What does ‘Disinterestedness’ in science imply?
Scientists are motivated only by the pursuit of truth and not personal gain.
What is the role of ‘Organized Skepticism’ in science?
Peer review ensures rigorous scrutiny and objectivity.
What are some cognitive biases affecting scientific research?
Subjectivity, influenced by prior beliefs, misconduct, and systemic issues.
Fill in the blank: Science as a _______ means it is a collective, intersubjective process.
social construct.
What does Ritchie 2020 suggest about science’s objectivity?
Science represents an unmatched degree of objectivity despite flawed processes.
