Theoretical Issues in Method Choice Flashcards

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What are theoretical issues in method choice?

They are ideas about what kind of knowledge is best and how to get it. They guide which method a sociologist picks.

What is positivism and what data does it prefer?

Positivism says we can study society like science. Positivists prefer quantitative data.

What is interpretivism and what data does it prefer?

Interpretivism says we should understand people’s meanings. Interpretivists prefer qualitative data.

Why might a positivist choose a questionnaire or structured interview?

They give standard answers that are easy to compare. They can be repeated, so they seem more reliable.

Why might an interpretivist choose participant observation or an open interview?

They let people speak in their own words. They give rich detail and higher validity.

What is objectivity in research?

It means keeping personal views out of the findings. Structured, closed questions aim to be more objective.

What is subjectivity in research?

It is when results are shaped by feelings or views. Some methods accept this to get deeper meaning.

How do macro and micro approaches link to method choice?

Macro views study big patterns, so they use large-scale data. Micro views study small interactions, so they use in-depth methods.

What does looking for cause and effect mean in sociology?

It means finding what factors produce an outcome. Positivists use methods like surveys and experiments to test links.

How can a sociologist’s theory affect sample size?

Positivists may choose large, broad samples to spot patterns. Interpretivists may pick small, focused samples for depth.