Objectivity and Values

Question 1

which theorists argue that sociology can and should be value free(give 3 example)

Answer 1

Positivists / Comte, Marx and Durkheim

Question 2

what do positivists/ comte/ marx/durkheim argue (2)

Answer 2

-sociology should be objective and value free by using structured and scientific methods
-sociology should research social facts, collect data, create theory and then test the theory continuously

Question 3

what is the on the fence approach to should sociology be value free

Answer 3

value relevance

Question 4

who argues in favour of value relevance

Answer 4

Interpretivists / Weber

Question 5

what do interpretivists / weber argue (4)

Answer 5

-values guide research eg what aspect of society should be studied
-values are important for data interpretation to create theoretical concepts
-values should be used to consider the effect of the research on people
-values should be left out of data collection to avoid bias

Question 6

who argues that sociology cannot and should not be value free/laden (2)

Answer 6

Becker
Gouldner

Question 7

what theory does Becker follow (1) and what is his argument (2)

Answer 7

Interactionist
-argues sociology should side with the underdogs as little is known of their position
- best thing to do is clearly state values they have so audience can be aware how research may have been affected

Question 8

what theory does Gouldner follow and what does he disagree with

Answer 8

Marxism
-disagrees with Becker as he is over sentimental of disadvantaged groups and thinks sociology should study powerful groups as they create structures of oppression

Question 9

what other arguments does Gouldner make(4)

Answer 9

-research is ‘historically’ bound
-functionalists are not as objective as they claim to be and they support ruling elite values when critical sociology should challenge these values
-Becker = insufficiently radical
-research may be influenced by personal agenda, ambition, career goals, beliefs etc