Questions and Answers
Which philosopher is known for forming positivism?
What is positivism based on?
The belief that everything can be understood through science
The three assumptions of positivism include: 1. There exists an objective and knowable reality, 2. All sciences will become the same over time, and 3. There is no room in science for __________.
value judgments
Anti-positivism believes that everything can be understood through science.
Signup and view all the answers
What does anti-positivism assert about the social areas of study?
Signup and view all the answers
Which of the following is NOT an assumption of positivism?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Introduction to Positivism and Anti-positivism
- Positivism and anti-positivism represent contrasting theoretical approaches in sociology.
- Positivism was shaped by 19th-century philosopher Auguste Comte.
- Anti-positivism emerged as a reaction to positivism, prompted by groups of philosophers rejecting its core ideas.
Positivism Overview
- Positivism asserts that knowledge and understanding can be achieved solely through scientific methods.
- Belief that empirical observation and scientific reasoning are the foundations of knowledge.
Assumptions of Positivism
- Existence of an objective, knowable reality:
- Objective reality is independent of human emotions and subjective feelings.
- This reality can be comprehended through scientific inquiry.
- Convergence of scientific disciplines:
- All sciences explore the same singular reality and will gradually converge over time.
- Example: Biological processes like biochemical reactions in the brain are linked to behavioral sciences.
- Value neutrality in science:
- Science operates independently of personal or societal values.
- All scientific contributions are deemed equally valid in enhancing understanding of the world.
Anti-positivism Overview
- Anti-positivism fundamentally opposes the tenets of positivism.
- Asserts that not all knowledge can be derived from scientific methods.
- Views social studies as distinct from natural sciences, requiring a different understanding rooted in human subjectivity.
Rebuttals to Positivism in Anti-positivism
- The social world cannot be fully understood through quantitative methods (numbers and formulas).
- Scientific disciplines will not merge; different approaches are necessary for varied contexts.
- Recognizes that science is influenced by societal values, and cannot be fully separated from them.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Explore the key concepts of positivism and anti-positivism through these informative flashcards. Learn about their contrasting perspectives and the historical context provided by philosophers like Auguste Comte. This quiz will help solidify your understanding of these essential sociological theories.
