Theory Questions Flashcards
Provide 5 bullet points that sum up the positivist approach
Positivists believe in the scientific study of social patterns
They value objectivity and measurable facts
They assume society has its own laws just like nature
They prefer quantitive data such as statistics
They use experiments and surveys for research
Provide five bullet points that sum up the interpretivist approach
They want to understand human behaviour
They value subjective experiences and interpretations
They believe social reality is constructed and thus changeable
They prefer qualitative data like interviews
They prefer participant observation and case studies
Provide two criticisms of the view that all science is objective
There can be bias as scientists may allow their personal believes or values to influence their research
Not all phenomena can be measured objectively
Summarise the realist view of the sociology and science debate
It suggests that social phenomena exist independently of our perception. It also combines elements of positivism and interpretivism.
Explain what is meant by value freedom
It is conducting research without letting personal bias of societal norms influence the findings
Why do many sociologists wish to be seen as scientific?
Science is viewed as reliable and trustworthy so being scientific adds legitimacy to their findings
why do committed sociologists believe that sociologists should see things from the point of view of the underdog?
It can highlight social injustices that might otherwise be overlooked
Provide two relativist views on the value freedom debate
Complete objectivity is impossible as they argue that everyone has biases and it’s unrealistic to expect researchers to completely detach from their own beliefs.
Bias can also be beneficial as it can actually enrich their work
Outline two ways that sociology is linked to social policy
Sociological research often provides the data that shapes and supports social policies
Sociology can also be used to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and suggest improvements
Outline three sociological perspectives on social policy
Functionalists believe that social policies help society function smoothly by addressing social issues
Marxists see social policies as a way to manage and control the working class which maintains inequality
Feminists argue that many social policies reinforce traditional gender roles and contribute to gender inequality.
