Positivism and interpretivism: key terms
12 terms. Say the definition out loud, tap to check, then say whether you knew it. Back to the topic
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Positivism
The view that sociology should study society scientifically, using quantitative methods to find causes and laws of behaviour.
Exam tip Durkheim is the classic example. Explain why positivists prefer reliable, quantitative data.
Interpretivism
The view that sociology should understand the meanings people give to their actions, using qualitative methods.
Exam tip Linked to Weber and interactionism. Explain why interpretivists prefer valid, qualitative data.
Social facts
Durkheim's term for features of society, such as norms and institutions, that exist outside individuals and constrain them.
Exam tip Positivists say social facts can be measured, for example through suicide rates.
Quantitative data
Information in numerical form, such as official statistics or closed-question questionnaire results.
Exam tip Do not just say 'numbers': say what it lets the researcher do (compare, find patterns).
Qualitative data
Information in words or images that gives a detailed picture of meanings and experiences.
Exam tip Examples: unstructured interviews, participant observation, diaries.
Macro approach
Studying society as a whole and its large-scale structures.
Exam tip Usually structural theories such as functionalism and Marxism.
Micro approach
Studying small-scale interactions between individuals.
Exam tip Usually interactionism. Link to the meanings actors give to situations.
Theoretical factors
How the researcher's view of what society is and how to study it shapes their choice of method.
Exam tip One of the three sets of factors (with practical and ethical) that affect choice of method.
Practical factors
Time, money, access and the skills of the researcher, which affect the choice of method.
Exam tip In Methods in Context questions, tie each practical issue to the group in the Item.
Ethical factors
Moral issues such as consent, confidentiality, harm and deception, which affect the choice of method.
Exam tip The BSA ethical guidelines are a good reference point.
Rapport
A relationship of trust and understanding between researcher and participant.
Exam tip Helps validity in unstructured interviews; pupils may need it to open up.
Methodological pluralism
Using a combination of methods to get a fuller picture.
Exam tip Often the best way to conclude a methods essay.
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