Interpretivism - Methodology

Question 1

Who developed Interpretivism?

Answer 1

Weber - Sociology couldn’t and shouldn’t be scientific. Emphasise the meaning for understanding human action

Question 2

How do Interpretivists suggest people do not just respond to external forces?

Answer 2

Argue they interpret and give meaning to a situation before responding to it

Question 3

What do Interpretivists argue about social phenomena?

Answer 3

E.g. crime, suicide and social class are simple social constructs

Question 4

How do Interpretivists try to get personally involved with individuals?

Answer 4

Through deep conversations with them in unstructured interviews, by close observations and by participating in their activities (ethnography)

Question 5

What are 4 strengths of qualitative data and the studies that show these?

Answer 5

• High in validity (Laud Humphreys)
• Allows for empathetic understanding (D+D)
• Can gain a rapport = more valid (Oakley)
• Good for studying more sensitive topics as have more understanding (Barker)

Question 6

What are 4 weaknesses of qualitative data and the studies that show these?

Answer 6

• Time consuming (Barker)
• Requires considerable skills (Barker)
• Often involves smaller, unrepresentative samples - can’t generalise (Sharpe)
• Can include subjectivity which may alter results (Willis)