What is the concept of value-free sociology? In what parts of teaching and research is a value-free stance important? In your opinion, can sociology be truly "value-free"?

What will be an ideal response?


Answers will vary but should include that value-free sociology is the notion that sociological research must be subjective, rather than based on opinion. Scientific methods set out to study things systematically. Weber suggests that no one can be completely objective, and that it is okay to allow one's passions to help determine topics of interest. Weber emphasizes that the data collection itself should be as value-free as possible to avoid bias and unscientific results. Some question the ability to set aside our values, but it is important to maintain procedural objectivity. Research should be presented with transparency in how it was carried out, allowing anyone to replicate the research approach and evaluate its methods. Weber argues that teaching must be value-free. His views were influenced by the use of the classroom to propagandize for Marxism in his day. Weber opposed the use of the classroom, or academic lecture in general, as a means of persuading students to adopt certain political opinions over others.

Sociology

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Answer the following statement true (T) or false (F)

Sociology

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Sociology