T and M: sociology and science

Question 1

define a science

Answer 1

Science is the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence

Question 2

define a social science

Answer 2

the scientific study of human society and social relationships

Question 3

outline positivism and science

Answer 3

Comte argued the use of scientific research methods to study society would produce a ‘positive science of society’ > this would show behaviour is governed by laws of cause and effect
focuses on studying social institutions and social structures as a whole

Question 4

define social facts

Answer 4

institutions/norms/values/laws external to an individual with the coercive power to control aspects of their life
eg: class is a social fact and it impacts things like subject choice and educational achievement

Question 5

positivism and social facts

Answer 5

believe social facts cause events in the world
Durkheim argues sociology should study these facts in an observable measureable way

Question 6

what are the tow features that Durkheim suggests make sociology scientific

Answer 6

inductive reasoning
verificationism

Question 7

explain how inductive reasoning and verificationism make sociology scientific

Answer 7

inductive reasoning: gathering data about the world through careful obervation and measurement > uses scientific methods > able to see general patterns of behaviour

verificationism: theories are confirmed or verified through the collection of evidence