Is Objectivity Possible In Sociology?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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To be objective, a researcher must

not

allow their values, their bias or their views to impact on their research, analysis or findings. … But interpretivist sociologists are interested in the subjective views and interpretations of their subjects, believing that it is impossible to objectively establish social facts.

What do you mean by objectivity in sociology?

Elwell’s Glossary of Sociology (undated) defines objectivity as: Objectivity means

striving as far as possible to reduce or eliminate bias in the conduct of research

.

Why is objectivity difficult in sociology?

Factors Affecting Objectivity:

It is

very difficult to achieve objectivity

in social science research. This difficulty arises out of the adverse influences of (a) personal prejudices and bias, (b) value judgement, (c) ethical dilemma and (d) complexity of social phenomena.

What is social objectivity?

That is, objectivity is a worth ideal to be strived for but not worth enough to compromise with the very purpose of social sciences. Objectivity. Objectivity means

judgment based on observable phenomena and uninfluenced by emotions or personal prejudices

.

Is objectivity possible in social research?

Objectivity in social research is the principle drawn from positivism that,

as far as is possible, researchers should remain distanced from what they study so findings

depend on the nature of what was studied rather than on the personality, beliefs and values of the researcher (an approach not accepted by researchers …

What is an example of objectivity?

Objectivity Examples: Investigations

Objectivity is critical when a company begins an investigation into a matter that happened at the workplace. … For example, if an

employee complains of sexual harassment from another employee

, the company would use objective methods to verify this complaint.

What is the importance of objectivity?

Objectivity is

necessary to get an accurate explanation of how things work in the world

. Ideas that show objectivity are based on facts and are free from bias, with bias basically being personal opinion. In science, even hypotheses, or ideas about how something may work, are written in a way that are objective.

What is objective method?

Objective methods do not rely on written or verbal responses from the individual under study but instead

record phenomena from which the dimensions of physical activity can be inferred

. The phenomena can be physiological, kinematic, biochemical, or environmental in nature.

What is objectivity in writing?

WRITING CENTRE

The convention of ‘objective’ writing is that arguments use impartial language, which is not personal, judgmental, or emotive. Objective language, therefore, is considered

fair and accurate

. It avoids exaggeration and bias, and shows respect for the views of others.

How do you achieve objectivity?

  1. Be specific instead of vague or general. …
  2. Do not use opinionated, prejudiced, or exclusive language. …
  3. Avoid using first person to keep it more professional and less about you. …
  4. Try not to over exaggerate your writing.

Why is objectivity so important in sociology?

Objectivity is

the state of mind in which the social scientist remains objective

, just, unbiased and is not influenced by emotions, personal prejudices, or preferences. It restrains the social scientist from contaminating or manipulating the collection and analysis of data.

What is the main problem of objectivity?

‘The Problem of Objectivity’ challenges

the Cartesian picture

according to which there is a metaphysical distinction between the inner and the outer, knowledge of one’s own mind is more fundamental and secure than knowledge of other minds, knowledge is based on data given to the individual mind, and acquisition of …

What is the difference between objectivity and subjectivity?

Based on or influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions. Objective: (of a person or their judgement) not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and representing facts.

What is the importance of objectivity in social science?

Objectivity is the most cherished value of a scientific research. The essence of objectivity is

to make a given research free from researcher’s biases

. The bias can be caused by a variety of reasons and not all the reasons are always controllable by the researcher.

What are the four objectives of social development?

The objectives of social development includes all the things which impacts the overall development of a society. Social development includes

freedom, respect, female education, per capita income, female empowerment, highest sex ratio

(number of females per 1000 males) etc.

What is objectivity in academic writing?

Objectivity. Academic writing

presents and evaluates issues and arrives at an objective position

; a position that focuses on and is informed by research and reasoning rather than personal feelings and opinions.

Amira Khan
Author
Amira Khan
Amira Khan is a philosopher and scholar of religion with a Ph.D. in philosophy and theology. Amira's expertise includes the history of philosophy and religion, ethics, and the philosophy of science. She is passionate about helping readers navigate complex philosophical and religious concepts in a clear and accessible way.