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What are the two main approaches to data collection in empirical research?
Philosophy is considered a science because it employs empirical observation to acquire knowledge.
False
What is the goal of empirical research?
To use data to answer questions and to develop and test ideas.
___ refers to knowledge that is acquired through direct observation and experience.
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Match the following terms with their definitions:
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Which of the following describes confirmation bias?
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All sources of knowledge are equally credible.
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What is the difference between misinformation and disinformation?
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Knowledge acquired using the __________ method is considered different from other sources.
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Which of the following is an example of knowledge from authority?
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Match the sources of knowledge with their descriptions:
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Confirmation bias can lead individuals to ignore contradictory evidence.
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What should you do after class to enhance your understanding of the material?
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Which of the following is NOT one of the main social science disciplines?
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Inductive reasoning is typically used for quantitative research methods.
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What is a hypothesis?
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The _______ paradigm views social reality as objective and measurable.
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Match the following social science paradigms with their characteristics:
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Which of the following best describes the critical paradigm?
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Academic texts are intended mainly for general public consumption.
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What key skills are needed for the final assignment?
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Which of the following is an example of a non-academic text?
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Academic texts are always free from bias.
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What is peer review?
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Most of the texts people come across in their daily life are __________.
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of non-academic texts?
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Match the type of text with its characteristic:
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Selection bias occurs when an author chooses which comments to include in their piece.
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What is one disadvantage of academic sources?
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Study Notes
Understanding Knowledge Acquisition
- Knowledge can be acquired through different methods, each with pros and cons.
- Common sense is based on personal experience rather than empirical evidence, leading to varied beliefs.
- Confirmation bias leads individuals to seek information that supports pre-existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence.
- Online information can affirm any belief, emphasizing the critical need for information evaluation.
- Critical thinking is essential given the abundance of readily available information.
- Misinformation refers to false information spread unintentionally; disinformation is knowingly manipulated information.
Evaluating Knowledge Sources
- The reliability of knowledge sources varies, and some may be more credible than others.
- Authority-based knowledge comes from experts, but experts can make mistakes.
- Tradition relies on accepted historical consensus, which may not reflect current realities.
- Media myths derive knowledge from popular media but often lack depth and accuracy.
Scientific vs. Non-Scientific Knowledge
- Scientific knowledge is defined by rigorous methods, including structured theory and research.
- Religion and philosophy rely on authority and tradition for knowledge but are not scientific as they lack falsifiability.
- Science values knowledge obtained through empirical observation and reasoning.
- Rationalism emphasizes logical reasoning, while empiricism values direct observation and experience.
Approaches to Empirical Research
- Data collection methods are divided into quantitative (numerical) and qualitative (non-numerical).
- Both approaches offer different insights and are not inherently superior to each other.
- Qualitative approaches focus on meanings and perspectives, while quantitative methods prioritize objective measurement.
- Data in social sciences is used to develop and test ideas, based on either inductive or deductive reasoning.
Paradigms in Social Science Research
- Paradigms shape how researchers interpret and interact with their subjects.
- The positivist paradigm views social reality as objective, measured similarly to natural sciences.
- The interpretive paradigm sees reality as subjective, socially constructed, and informed by cultural contexts.
- The critical paradigm highlights research as value-laden, acknowledging biases that distort understanding.
Distinction Between Academic and Non-Academic Texts
- Academic texts are scholarly, objective, and intended for academic audiences; examples include theses and journal articles.
- Non-academic texts cater to the general public, often informal and subjective; examples include blogs and newspapers.
- Quality non-academic sources can still provide valuable information, such as trusted news outlets or government publications.
- Academic work is beneficial for its credibility and intent to eliminate bias, albeit it can be complex to read.
Understanding and Identifying Bias
- Bias is the weighted favoritism towards an idea, leading to potential prejudice in text interpretation.
- Even academic texts might exhibit bias, though experts aim for objectivity.
- Case studies can highlight bias, such as differing portrayals of political figures in media articles.
The Importance of Peer Review
- Peer review is vital for ensuring the quality of scholarly articles, involving assessments by independent researchers.
- The process aims to gauge scientific merit before publication, facilitating trust in academic literature.
- Manuscripts undergo peer review to secure better adherence to academic standards before reaching the public.
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Description
This quiz explores the pros and cons of various knowledge acquisition methods, focusing on common sense versus empirical evidence. It also examines cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias, and how they influence our understanding of truth. Engage with scenarios to better grasp these concepts.
