Choice of Methods & Topics

• What personal values influence sociologists when selecting a research topic?

  Theoretical perspective and area of interest
• How might a Marxist sociologist choose their research topic?

  By focusing on social class inequalities
• How does the specialization of sociologists in contemporary society differ from the past?

  Contemporary sociologists focus on specific aspects
• What are common funding sources for sociological research?

  Universities, charities, and the government
• How do funding agencies influence sociological research topics?

  They set specific areas for research proposals
• What might limit a sociologist's choice of research topic?

  Their career stage and funding sources
• Why might a researcher not identify strictly as a Marxist or feminist?

  They may draw from multiple influences
• What is an example of a research group focused on media impact?

  The Glasgow University Media Group
• What is the focus of the Chicago School in sociology?

  Applying ethnographic methods to theoretical approaches
• What is a key focus of the Frankfurt School?

  Addressing criticisms of Marxism
• How does funding influence the choice of research topic?

  It limits topics to fit funding criteria
• What is a common funding source for sociological research?

  Charities
• How do government funding sources typically influence research?

  They prefer large-scale impactful research
• What type of research might the Joseph Rowntree Foundation fund?

  Research on inequalities and poverty effects
• What is a challenge for early career sociologists?

  They may need to work outside their interests
• How does a sociologist's career stage affect their research topic choice?

  Early stages limit topic freedom, later stages expand it
• What methods are likely used for large-scale sociological research?

  Quantitative methods like closed questionnaires
• What method might be used to study hard-to-reach groups?

  Observations or unstructured interviews
• Why might qualitative methods be preferred for sensitive topics?

  They provide deeper insight into individual experiences
• What influences the choice of research methods besides the topic?

  Funding body preferences and theoretical perspectives
• How do different theoretical approaches affect research methods?

  They favor specific methodologies based on their views
• What is the difference between functionalist and feminist methodologies?

  Functionalists prefer positivist methods, feminists emphasize empathy
• What is the role of ethics in sociological research according to Weber?

  Researchers should report accurate findings ethically
• How do Goldner and Weber differ in their views on research topic selection?

  Goldner emphasizes funding influence, Weber values researcher objectivity
• What are the preferred methodologies of different theoretical perspectives in sociology?

  • Functionalists: Positivist methodologies
  • Feminists: Empathetic and qualitative methodologies
  • Interactionists: Ethnographic approaches
• What are the main factors influencing a sociologist's choice of research topic?

  • Personal values (theoretical perspective)
  • Area of interest
  • Funding sources
  • Career trajectory
  • Institutional specialization
• What are the implications of funding on sociological research?

  • Limits research topics to funding criteria
  • Influences preferred methodologies
  • Affects the scale of research conducted
• What are the challenges faced by early career sociologists?

  • Limited choice of research topics
  • Need to work as research assistants
  • Pressure to align with funding sources