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describe Positivism

the belief that society can be studied scientifically using objective, quantitative methods to identify patterns and trends.

Describe Interpretivism

the belief that sociology should understand people’s meanings and experiences using qualitative research methods.

What research method does positivism use?

Quantitative-numerical data

What research method does Interpretivism use?

Qualitative-words

What is the nature vs nurture debate in sociology?

The debate over whether human behaviour is influenced more by biological factors or socialisation and the environment

Define ‘nature’

The idea that human behaviour is mainly influenced by biological or genetic factors.

Define ‘nuture’

The idea that human behaviour is mainly influenced by socialisation, upbringing and the environment.

Define the term ‘norms’

norms are rules or expectations of behaviour that are relevant to our society

define the term ‘values’

Values are individual beliefs that motivate people to act one way or another

Define the term ‘primary socialisation’

refers to the process by which children learn by the cultural norms, values and behaviour of the society they are born into

What are some factors of primary socialization

social class, beliefs, ethnicity, gender, education

Define the term ‘ formal social control’

Refers to the enforcement of norms, laws and regulations by institutions to ensure that individual comply with the rules of society

Define the term ‘informal social control’

The ways people unconsciously learn and follow society’s norms, values and expected behaviours through everyday interactions, without needing laws or rules.

Define the term ‘culture’

Refers to the way of life of society