September 14th 2015

SCS2150

Chapter 1 - General Research Questions

What

Introduction
is the goal of research?
Assess the adequacy of a particular social theory, such as a
theory of prejudice or crime
Gather information to create theories
Research is driven by what is seen as a pressing social problem

Theory and research

Connection between theory and research (1) the form of the
theory and (2) the relationship between data and theory.
Degree of Abstraction
Theory an explanation of observed regularities or patterns
Theories are composed of interrelated and usually verifiable
statements or propositions.
o These statements and propositions come in different forms
and types.
1. Definitions specify what the key terms in the theory mean
2. Descriptions outline the characteristics of the phenomena of
interest.
3. Relational Statements connect two or more variables, so that
knowing the value of one variable conveys information about the other
a) Deterministic two variables always go together in a particular
way
b) Probabilistic which mean the two variables go together with
some degree of regularity
Theories
Middle range integrating empirical research and theory
Grand theory highly abstract theorizing (structural
functionalism, symbolic interactionism, critical theory, poststructuralism, and feminism.
Standpoint the way we view the world and make our way in it is
largely determined by our placement in various hierarchies of
status of power.
Ways of acquiring knowledge
Deductive Method most common
Theory Hypothesis Data Collection Findings Hypothesis
confirmed or rejected Revision of Theory

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Inductive Method Theory is the outcome of research. Begins

with gathering data that is used to create a theory.
o Sometimes this method can lead to more empirical
generalizations.

Gathering data Theory = grounded theory

Epistemological Considerations
Epistemology notions of what can be known and how
knowledge can be acquired.
Epistemological issue in science should follow the same
principles and procedures as the natural sciences.
Epistemological Positions
Positivism the philosophy of science that positive facts,
information derived from sensory experience, interpreted
through rational or logical and mathematical treatments, form
the exclusive source of all authoritative knowledge; and that
there is valid knowledge (certitude or truth) only in this derived
knowledge.
Interpretivism people act on the basis of the meanings that
they attribute to their acts and to the acts of others. Individuals
use their own common-sense constructs to interpret the reality of
their daily lives and it is these thoughts that motivate their
behavior.
Symbolic Interactionism An individuals self-concept emerges
through an appreciation of the perceptions of others. Interaction
takes place in such way that individuals are continually
interpreting the symbolic meaning of their environment.
Ontological Considerations
Ontology study of nature of being, becoming, existence and
reality.
Ontological Positions
Objectivist Maintain that there is such a thing as social
reality, and that it is the job of social scientists to discover
what that reality is.
Constructionist people holding these views are in sympathy
with Nietzsches famous aphorism that there are not facts,
only interpretations (no social reality).
General Orientations: Quantitative and Qualitative

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September 14th 2015