Objectivity and values in sociology

Question 1

Why early positivists (comte/marx) believe that sociology can be objective

Answer 1

Objective quantitative research allows patterns of behaviour to be measured

Can undercover cause and effect of behaviour using scientific methods

Question 2

Weber’s belief sociology can be free from values up until a point

Answer 2

Data collection= unbiased & objective, no leading questions

However choice of topic and interpretations can’t be value free

Question 3

Gomm, interpretivist view on sociology not being value free

Answer 3

value free sociology is impossible:
- choice of subject (researcher or those in power)
- funding, may come with ties to interpretations
- methodology

Question 4

Why Becker believes sociology cannot be free from values (+ solutions)

Answer 4

its inevitable, all sociology is influenced by values, sociologists take sides. cant be neutral or detached.

solution: take side of the underdog, identify with the powerless (balance)