34 Questions
What is the primary goal of scientists, including sociologists, in conducting methodical studies?
To make predictions and generalizations based on empirical research
What is a science, according to the first definition?
A body of organized, verified knowledge
Why is sociology considered a science?
All of the above
What is the primary difference between inductive and deductive reasoning?
Inductive reasoning involves moving from the particular to the universal
What is a theoretical notion in research?
A idea that can be expressed verbally or symbolically
Why is it important for researchers to detail their methodology?
So that others can review and criticize their work
What is the main difference between common sense and scientific knowledge?
Common sense is based on widespread beliefs, while scientific knowledge is based on empirical research
What is the primary goal of theory building in research?
To develop universal theories from particular data
What is the role of data in deductive reasoning?
To test a hypothesis
What is the significance of sociology as a science?
It provides a method of study for understanding human social behavior
What is the foundation of science?
Verifiable evidence
What is the primary difference between scientific observation and regular observation?
Scientific observation avoids making assumptions and checks for accuracy
What does precision refer to in scientific observation?
The degree of measurement
Why is scientific observation considered systematic?
Because it is gathered in a planned, methodical programme
What is objectivity in scientific observation?
The ability to view facts as they are, rather than how one may wish they were
What is the first objective of science?
To explain why something occurs
What is the goal of generalization in science?
To create claims that apply to a larger population or circumstance
What is the role of the observer in scientific observation?
To remain objective and unaffected by personal values and biases
What is a possible explanation for the statistical association between paying taxes and wearing swimsuits?
The tax filing deadline coincides with the start of the summer season
Which of the following is an example of a fictitious partnership?
The link between paying taxes and wearing swimsuits
What is a key characteristic of sociology as a scientific approach?
It uses empirical observation and data analysis
What is the purpose of peer review and replication in sociology?
To guarantee the accuracy and dependability of results
Why do some argue that sociology cannot be a science?
Because it is too complex and subjective
What is the goal of sociological explanations for social phenomena?
To develop explanations that can be tested and refuted
What is the concept of height related to in everyday life?
A measurement of a physical object's height from top to bottom
What are the two parts of a concept?
A definition and a sign
How do we typically acquire definitions of concepts?
Through socialization and cultural norms
What happens when we use a concept incorrectly?
We receive confused looks or corrections
Why are common language concepts often ambiguous and hazy?
Because they are influenced by cultural ideals and experiences
What is the difference between correlation and causation?
Correlation is a statistical relationship, while causation is a cause-and-effect relationship
What are the three conditions that must be met to prove causality?
The two variables must be related, the cause must occur before the effect, and the relationship must hold even after controlling for all other variables
What is a bogus relationship between two variables?
An apparent relationship that means nothing
What is an example of a bogus relationship between two variables?
The relationship between swimsuit sales and the tax filing deadline
What is the main difference between social scientific ideas and common conceptions?
Social scientific ideas are technical, while common conceptions are general
Study Notes
What is Science?
- Verifiable evidence is the foundation of science, which involves factual observations that can be verified by other observers through measuring, counting, and accuracy checks.
- Scientific observation is different from regular observation in that it is accurate, precise, systematic, and objective, avoiding assumptions and personal biases.
- The goals of science include explaining why something occurs, generalizing to a larger population, and predicting what will happen in the future based on current knowledge.
Theory Building Process
Inductive vs. Deductive
- Inductive process: converting particular data into universal theories, moving from the specific to the general.
- Deductive process: turning general theories into specific hypotheses that can be tested, moving from the general to the specific.
Concepts and Variables
- Concepts are the building blocks of theory, expressed verbally or symbolically, and exist in both natural science and social science.
- Concepts have two parts: a definition and a sign (a word, phrase, or written character).
- Concepts can be learned through experience, examples, and socialization, and can be ambiguous and context-dependent.
Causation vs Correlation
- Sociologists must be careful to distinguish between correlation (where two variables are related) and causation (where a change in one variable causes a change in another).
- To prove causality, three conditions must be met: correlation, temporal order, and control for other variables.
- Apparent associations between variables can be spurious or coincidental, and require careful analysis to establish causality.
Is Sociology a Science?
- Sociology investigates social phenomena using scientific approaches, including empirical observation, data analysis, and theory development.
- Sociology seeks to explain social phenomena using testable and refutable theories, and employs peer review and replication to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- While some argue that sociology cannot be a science due to the complexity and subjectivity of social processes, others contend that sociology can qualify as a science if it follows sound scientific principles and practices.
Explore the basics of science and its application in sociology. Learn about inductive and deductive reasoning, concepts and variables, and the difference between causation and correlation.
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