Positivism & Interpretivism

What is positivism?

An approach that studies society scientifically to identify patterns and cause-and-effect relationships.

What is interpretivism?

An approach that aims to understand the meanings individuals attach to their actions.

What is the difference between macro and micro approaches?

Macro studies society as a whole; micro studies small-scale interactions.

Which approach is associated with positivism?

Macro sociology, structural theories, functionalism and Marxism.

Which approach is associated with interpretivism?

Micro sociology, social action theory and interactionism.

What is verstehen?

Weber's concept of understanding social action from the individual's point of view.

What is the positivist view of human behaviour?

Behaviour is shaped by social structures and can be predicted.

What is the interpretivist view of human behaviour?

Behaviour is shaped by meanings and interpretations, which vary between individuals.

What research methods do positivists prefer?

Quantitative methods, such as questionnaires and official statistics.

What research methods do interpretivists prefer?

Qualitative methods, such as unstructured interviews and participant observation.

What is a key aim of positivist research?

To identify patterns, establish causal relationships and make generalisations.

What is a key aim of interpretivist research?

To gain valid, detailed insights into people's experiences and meanings.