Active learning ideas
This topic examines the 'myth' of value-free sociology. Can a researcher ever truly be objective, or do their personal beliefs always leak into their work? Students will look at the views of Weber, who argued for 'value relevance' but 'value neutrality' in the actual research. They also explore how sociology is used (or ignored) by governments to create social policy.
Activity 01
Students act as sociologists presenting research on 'poverty' to a Conservative and a Labour minister. They must show how the same data might be used to support different policies.
Is it possible for sociological research to be entirely objective?
Activity 02
Students are given a controversial topic (e.g., 'the benefits of nuclear power'). They must try to write a 'value-free' summary and then have a peer identify any hidden biases.
Should sociologists actively try to influence social policy?
Activity 03
Groups research who funds different think tanks or university departments. they must present on how this funding might influence the 'objectivity' of the research produced.
How do political ideologies shape the funding and focus of research?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Objectivity means having no opinion.
Weber argued you can have an opinion but must keep it out of the data collection. A 'fact vs. value' sorting task helps students see that being objective is a professional method, not a lack of personality.
Social policy is always based on sociological research.
Policy is often based on votes, money, and ideology. Case studies of 'ignored' research help students see the tension between sociology and the state.
Methods used in this brief
The Nature of Sociological Research
An evaluation of the relationship between sociological theory and research methods. Students will consider the practical, ethical, and theoretical factors influencing research design.
8 methodologies
Sociology and Science
A critical debate on whether sociology can or should be considered a science. Students will explore positivist and interpretivist views on the scientific method.
8 methodologies