positivism vs interpretivism

Question 1

positivists

Answer 1

such as Durkheim are interested in studying aspects of society which can be objectively observed. Therefore, they are less interested in the thoughts and feelings of individuals, and more interested in ‘social facts’ – things which exist objectively in society without the influence of individuals.

Question 2

interpretivists

Answer 2

such as Weber take a very different approach, focusing their research on the meanings behind the behaviour of individuals. They favour the use of qualitative methods to gain an empathetic understanding of social action.

Question 3

positivism involves…

Answer 3

*quantitive
*reliable
*scientific
*objective
*cause and effect relationships
*facts (social)
*macro

Question 4

interpretivism involves…

Answer 4

*qualitive
*valid
*non scientific
*meanings behind actions
*empathic understanding
*micro

Question 5

positivism advantages

Answer 5

*can identify trends over time
*can see correlations
*having established cause and relationships
*always allows easy analysis of complex data using computers
*often involves large scale, more representative
*quick cheap and straightforward

Question 6

interpretivism advantages

Answer 6

*high in validity, rich in-depth data
*allows for empathetic understanding
*develop close relationships which allow rapport
*more likely to retain the natural situation

Question 7

positivism disadvantages

Answer 7

*difficulties operationalising key concepts
*fails to consider meanings
*low validity, people may lie or respond in socially acceptable ways
*difficult to gather info about more complex personal topics

Question 8

interpretivism disadvantages

Answer 8

*time consuming
*requires skill
*difficult to replace-low in validity
*relies on the subjective interpretation of the researcher

Question 9

example of positivist research

Answer 9

Durkheim studies suicide, he compared quantitative and reliable official suicide statistics across different societies to identify trends and patterns
therefore found a cause and effect relationships between certain social factors

Question 10

example of interpretivist research

Answer 10

he wanted to show how an individuals view of the world influences their actions. used verstehen an emphatic understanding where the researcher puts themselves in their shoes.