topic 4- objectivity and values

• Positivists believe society could be improved through objective scientific knowledge, free from values of the researcher. Interpretivists, on the other hand, argue it is impossible for sociology to be value-free due to how research is subjective and influenced by values in all aspects. For instance, the sociologists own values influence the method they may use. Alternatively, Weber fits between the two and argues sociology cannot be free from values in the research process, but can be free from values when collecting data.
• POSITIVISTS

  Sociology can be studied free of values because it is objective.

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  Myrdal and Gouldber - sociologists should only identify their values, but opening ‘take sides’, espousing the interests of actual groups.

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  It is undesirable to be value-neutral.
• Can sociology be value-free during the research process?

  Yes, sociology can be value-free once the research process has been chosen.
• Why is it important to explicitly state values in sociological research?

  Values guide the selection of areas of study based on their relevance to researchers.
• How should sociologists approach data collection to maintain objectivity?

  Sociologists must avoid asking leading questions and rely on observed facts.
• What role do values play in the interpretation of data in sociology?

  Values influence how facts are set in a theoretical framework to understand their significance.
• What must sociologists do regarding their values when interpreting data?

  Sociologists must state their values explicitly.
• How do sociologists' roles as citizens affect their research?

  Sociologists cannot avoid the moral issues raised by their work or its applications.
• interpretivists

  Sociology cannot be studied free of values because it is subjective. The sociologist's values are influenced by:

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  Choice of research topic

  Choice of method

  Funding body
• What is the relationship between values and the research process in sociology?

  Values guide the selection of research areas and influence data interpretation.