Theory and Methods

Are interpretivists value free or laden?

Laden

Are positivists value free or laden?

Free

Are interpretivists valid or reliable?

Valid

Are positivists valid or reliable?

Reliable

Who argues that sociology is a science and want to establish social facts?

Positivists

Who uses inductive approach?

Positivists

What is the inductive approach?

Theory and then find evidence to support

What does Popper argue?

Science aims to falsify not verify

What does the falsification approach entail?

• Hypothesis formation

• Find evidence to prove wrong

• Establish a prediction based on evidence

• Becomes scientific theory until disproved

• Scrutiny

Is sociology a science according to Popper?

No

How come Marxism cannot be falsified?

If there is a revolution it is correct and if there isn’t it is still correct due to false class consciousness

What is a paradigm?

Basic framework of assumptions, methods, and principles of a community

What does Kuhn argue?

Paradigms

Does Kuhn think sociology is a science?

No

How come paradigms mean sociology isn’t a science?

There is no shared paradigm as there are too many opposing viewpoints

What do postmodernists argue about paradigms in science?

Science is not value free as many carry out research for a reason

What is an example of scientists carrying out research for a reason?

Funding from oil companies to research global warming

What does value committed mean?

Linking academic work to a vision of a better world

What does Weber argue about values?

Researchers must strive for objectivity but it cannot be fully achieved

What does Becker argue about values?

They are always present and that positivists and functionalists tend to take the viewpoint of the powerful. Sociologists should adopt a compassionate stance and take the side of the underdogs

What does Goulder say about Becker’s view?

Too sentimental of an approach to disadvantaged groups and people should support the end of their oppression. Value freedom is impossible and undesirable

What type of sociologist is Gouldner?

Marxist

Why is value freedom undesirable according to Gouldner?

Without values, sociologists are putting their services at the disposal of the highest bidder

What do feminists argue?

Science is traditionally malestream and represents male concerns