Positivism vs Interpretivism
Compare and contrast positivist and interpretive perspectives underpinning social research-
This essay intends to investigate by comparing and contrasting positivist and interpretive perspectives that surround social research. It will look into the use of methods such as quantitative and qualitative research and the effects and outcomes that this has in relation to social research. This will include the variations amongst them in both a positive and negative light.
Before research can be undertaken the researcher must investigate the various methodologies, methods, theoretical perspectives and philosophical bases which surrounds the research. This will then enable researchers to use a wide variety of research methods in order to enhance their own knowledge and theory on the research to be undertaken. Without this background knowledge the researcher would struggle to aim their research into a certain direction resulting in unsuccessful data and outcomes. (Payne, 2005) Research gives an insight into the problems within society and seeks to inform us on the developing problems of the world in order for us to be able to combat these problems and understand the root of the issues. ‘Basic thrust of all research is to solve problems and to expand knowledge of our universe which necessitates that it is carefully and systematically conducted’ (Taylor, 2005). Without the use of research in society it would make it hard for us to overcome barriers which help in enabling us to evolve into the future. This would in turn keep us in the dark ages of life unable to progress further leaving us living in an age of uncertainty. (Taylor, 2005)
Once a researcher has found their research question in which they intend to investigate they need to gather an understanding into the various kinds of methodologies and methods in which they will employ in the research; which theoretical perspective lies behind the methodology and what epistemology informs this theoretical perspective.
This essay intends to investigate by comparing and contrasting positivist and interpretive perspectives that surround social research. It will look into the use of methods such as quantitative and qualitative research and the effects and outcomes that this has in relation to social research. This will include the variations amongst them in both a positive and negative light.
Before research can be undertaken the researcher must investigate the various methodologies, methods, theoretical perspectives and philosophical bases which surrounds the research. This will then enable researchers to use a wide variety of research methods in order to enhance their own knowledge and theory on the research to be undertaken. Without this background knowledge the researcher would struggle to aim their research into a certain direction resulting in unsuccessful data and outcomes. (Payne, 2005) Research gives an insight into the problems within society and seeks to inform us on the developing problems of the world in order for us to be able to combat these problems and understand the root of the issues. ‘Basic thrust of all research is to solve problems and to expand knowledge of our universe which necessitates that it is carefully and systematically conducted’ (Taylor, 2005). Without the use of research in society it would make it hard for us to overcome barriers which help in enabling us to evolve into the future. This would in turn keep us in the dark ages of life unable to progress further leaving us living in an age of uncertainty. (Taylor, 2005)
Once a researcher has found their research question in which they intend to investigate they need to gather an understanding into the various kinds of methodologies and methods in which they will employ in the research; which theoretical perspective lies behind the methodology and what epistemology informs this theoretical perspective.
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