Objectivity and values

• What did 20th century positivists argue about values in sociology?

  Values are irrelevant to sociological research
• What did Gouldner criticize about American sociologists in the 1950s?

  They became 'spiritless technicians'
• What moral issues did Gouldner believe sociologists were dodging?

  Preventing revolutions in South America
• What is committed sociology according to Myrdal and Gouldner?

  • Sociologists should identify their values
  • They should openly take sides in research
  • Value neutrality is undesirable
• What question did Becker, an Interactionist, pose about sociology?

  ‘Whose side are we on?’
• Whose viewpoint do Functionalists and positivists traditionally represent?

  The viewpoint of the powerful
• How does Becker suggest we should approach sociology?

  By taking the side of the underdog
• What does Gouldner argue about the role of sociologists?

  • Sociologists should help end oppression
  • Describing underdog life is insufficient
  • Support should be given to those fighting back
• What can funding bodies control in sociological research?

  The direction and questions of research
• How might funding influence sociologists' career choices?

  It may lead to self-censorship
• How do values influence sociological research according to Gouldner?

  • Influence topics chosen for research
  • Affect concepts developed in studies
  • Shape conclusions reached by sociologists
• What do objectivity, subjectivity, and value freedom refer to?

  Key concepts in sociology's relationship with values
• What does relativism argue about truth?

  Truth varies among different groups
• How do post-modernists view accounts of society?

  There are no privileged accounts of truth
• What do some argue about sociologists and their values?

  • Some believe values can be excluded from research
  • Others argue it's impossible to be value-neutral
  • Some think using values can improve society
• What did Comte and Durkheim believe sociology should do?

  Discover truth and improve human life
• How did Marx view his role as a sociologist?

  As a scientist discovering societal truths
• What distinction did Weber make regarding values and facts?

  Values cannot be proved or disproved by facts
• What are Weber's views on values in sociological research?

  1. Values guide research selection
  2. Objectivity is crucial in data collection
  3. Values influence data interpretation
  4. Sociologists must address moral issues
• What can sociology tell us about values and goals?

  Means to achieve valued goals and consequences
• How might sociology critique the value of sexual discrimination?

  It reduces economic efficiency by excluding talent
• What is the concept of value freedom and commitment in sociology?

  • Value freedom: the idea of neutrality
  • Commitment: the need to address moral issues
  • Balancing objectivity with sociological values