T&M - Objectivity & Values Flashcards
What are values in sociology?
They guide our actions and influence research.
What are the three stances regarding values in sociological research?
- Value-Free
- Value-Laden
- Encourage Values
Who are classical sociologists that advocated for value-free sociology?
- Positivists like Durkheim
- Marx
- Comte
What is the belief of Modernist thinkers like Comte and Durkheim?
Sociology should be value-free and aim for progress.
What is the goal of Modernist beliefs in sociology?
To discover how society functions and improve human life.
What did Durkheim claim about his study of suicide?
It was completely detached from personal values.
What is Weber’s stance on values in sociological research?
Values should be present but sociologists should strive for objectivity in data collection.
Fill in the blank: According to Weber, values should guide research, but sociologists should be value-free during _______.
data collection.
How do values influence the interpretation of data in sociology?
They affect conclusions based on the sociologist’s theoretical position.
What is the role of the sociologist as a citizen?
They must be morally accountable for their research applications.
What do committed sociologists believe about values in research?
Values should be part of the research to better society.
What are ‘Problem Takers’ in the context of Gouldner’s theory?
Sociologists who work for organizations to solve their problems without challenging the status quo.
Why does Gouldner argue it is impossible to be value-free?
- Sociologist’s values will reflect in their work
- Research driven purely by funding undermines sociological integrity
What does Myrdal argue regarding sociologists and their values?
They should explicitly state their values and take sides.
What is Becker’s perspective on sociologists’ biases?
Sociologists traditionally side with the powerful but should advocate for the underdog.
What qualitative method does Goffman suggest sociologists use?
Qualitative methods to achieve Verstehen.
How can funding bodies influence sociological research?
The funder’s values can affect the research focus and outcomes.
What impact did the Conservative Government have on the Black Report?
Published over a bank holiday, reducing its audience.
What is relativism in sociology?
The belief that there are plural truths within society.
What do postmodernists argue about sociological perspectives?
No perspective has a special claim to truth, viewing all as meta-narratives.
True or False: Postmodernism is considered a self-defeating theory.
True.
