Introduction to Social Sciences

Questions and Answers

What is one significant challenge in achieving complete objectivity in social sciences?

Complete objectivity is challenging due to the subjective nature of personal accounts and interpretations of social data.

What is the triangulation technique in data analysis?

Triangulation technique involves analyzing three sources of the same data to verify and validate information.

How did anthropology develop in relation to imperialism?

Anthropology emerged as a discipline to categorize and analyze cultures in the service of imperialism.

In the context of historical research, what types of sources can be triangulated?

Sources that can be triangulated include eyewitness accounts, library research, and various types of historical evidence. Signup and view all the answers

How can subjective accounts be subjected to validation in social sciences?

Subjective accounts can be cross-validated with other accounts, even if they are primarily based on personal beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

What does intersubjectivity refer to in the context of social research?

Intersubjectivity refers to the validation of personal thoughts and interpretations among individuals, suggesting that if a majority affirm a claim, it is considered credible. Signup and view all the answers

Why is ethics significant in social research?

Ethics is significant because it ensures respectful treatment of people involved in research, emphasizing a right and wrong approach to conducting studies. Signup and view all the answers

How has the perception of ethics in social research changed from its incipient stage?

Initially, ethics were not prioritized and often ignored in social research, treating subjects as mere data points rather than human beings. Signup and view all the answers

What consequences may arise from overlooking ethical standards in social research?

Overlooking ethical standards can lead to harm or disrespect to participants, undermining the credibility of the research findings. Signup and view all the answers

Can subjective accounts of events be considered valid data? Why or why not?

Yes, subjective accounts can be considered valid data if they are supported by intersubjectivity, as they reflect shared perceptions and interpretations. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Disciplines in social sciences originated with the establishment of national states which required categorization and analysis.
Anthropology developed as a discipline associated with imperialism.
Some social sciences have roots tracing back to Ancient Greek philosophers.

Objectivity and Subjectivity

A key concern in social sciences is the feasibility of complete objectivity.
Subjective accounts lead to diverse interpretations and organization of social data, making value-free research challenging.
Distinguishing facts from fantasies can be particularly difficult when examining past events.

Triangulation Technique

Triangulation is employed to enhance data analysis by evaluating three different sources.
Can involve three sources relaying the same narrative, different methods of data collection, or three distinct types of data.
In history, valid interpretations arise from combining data from various informants, libraries, and different forms of evidence (e.g., historical records, oral accounts, material evidence).

Intersubjectivity

Intersubjectivity refers to the phenomenon where individuals validate each other’s thoughts and experiences.
If two out of three people corroborate a claim, it is likely accurate and consistent.
Subjective accounts become credible when they align with the perspectives of others, indicating shared belief and interpretation.

Ethics play a crucial role in social research, establishing guidelines for respectful treatment of people involved in studies.
Ethical standards were often disregarded during the early development of social sciences, treating individuals more like laboratory specimens than participants.
The importance of ethical considerations reflects a shift towards recognizing the dignity and rights of research subjects.

Description

This quiz explores the origins and development of various disciplines within the social sciences, including anthropology and its ties to imperialism. It also examines the crucial question of objectivity in social science research and the role of subjective perspectives. Test your knowledge about the foundational concepts and historical context of social sciences.