Objectivity, reliability and quantitative data

Question 1

Features of scientific data

Answer 1

• Research method should follow logical procedures so it can be replicated
• Repetition and replication is possible to ensure reliability
• Should be objective, value-free and not affected by researcher prejudice
• The sample studied should be representative
• Generalisations should be able to be made
• Data should be quantitative so correlations can be made
• It should be high in validity and give a true picture of what’s being studied

Question 2

What did early positivists believe

Answer 2

By uncovering social facts, we can make predictions about the social world and a certain amount of social engineering can be done to improve society

Question 3

Why has positivist research dominated

Answer 3

• The BSA agrees with the value freedom of quantitative research
• The government tends to fund quantitative research as more generalisations can be made
• Science is still valued in society