Introduction to Sociology – Chapter 2 PDF

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Dr. William Thompson...

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Introduction to Sociology – Chapter 2

Methodology -the rules and guidelines followed in sociological research, and the way sociologist develop theories and gain knowledge about human behavior, groups, social interaction, and society.

Types of knowledge (SFACE) 

Experience - relies on trial and error learning.

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Cultural traditions - an accepted body of "facts" is passed from generation to generation.

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Faith - a strong belief in "truths" that cannot be verified by personal experience -- serves as an important source of knowledge in almost every culture.

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Authority - is gained by listening to people who are recognized as authorities or experts.

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Science - bases knowledge on empirical evidence gained through direct, systematic observation.

Theory - is a set of interrelated propositions or statements, that attempt to explain some phenomenon. Concept - is an abstract idea or general thought. Validity - refers to the extent to which a technique accurately measures what it purports to measure Reliability - refers to the consistency of measurement Variables - represents ways in which concepts vary or differ. Proposition - a statement that interrelates two or more variables Correlation- a measure indicating that two variables are related in such a way that a change in one is accompanied nu a change in the other. Causation - when a change in one variable creates a change in another variable.

Exploratory Research - research that attempts to answer the 'what?' Descriptive Research - research that answers the Questions 'what?' and 'how?' Explanatory Research - that attempts to explain social phenomena by answering the questions 'what?' 'How?' and 'why?'

Evaluation Research - research that measures the effectiveness of a program Quantitative research Design - research design that emphasizes the use of numbers and statistics to analyze and explain social events and human behavior.

The Hawthorne Effect - The phenomenon where subjects' behavior is influenced by the fact that they are being studied.

Doing Sociology How do sociologist know that things are not what they seem?

Types of knowledge 

Experience

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Cultural traditions

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Faith

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Authority

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Science

Ethical Issues 

What do we have the right to know?

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Study people without their knowledge?

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Deceive the people?

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Break the law?

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Bend the law?

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Asa code of ethics?...