Philosophy Of Social Science Study Cards

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Philosophy of Social Science

A branch of philosophy that studies the methods, theories, and concepts used in social sciences to understand and explain social phenomena.

Positivism

A philosophical approach that emphasizes the use of scientific methods and empirical evidence to study social phenomena, focusing on observable facts and causal relationships.

Interpretivism

A philosophical approach that emphasizes the importance of subjective meanings and interpretations in understanding social phenomena, focusing on the social actors' perspectives and experiences.

Scientific Method

A systematic approach used in social science research to formulate hypotheses, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions based on empirical evidence.

Causality

The relationship between cause and effect, where one event (the cause) leads to another event (the effect). Social scientists study causal relationships to understand how and why social phenomena occur.

Social Construction of Reality

The process by which individuals and groups create and maintain their understanding of reality through social interactions and shared meanings.

Hermeneutics

A philosophical approach that focuses on the interpretation and understanding of texts, symbols, and social actions, emphasizing the importance of context and subjective meanings.

Phenomenology

A philosophical approach that explores the lived experiences and subjective perspectives of individuals, aiming to understand the essence of human consciousness and perception.

Structuralism

A theoretical framework that analyzes social phenomena by examining the underlying structures and systems that shape individuals' behaviors and interactions.

Functionalism

A sociological perspective that views society as a complex system of interrelated parts, where each part contributes to the overall functioning and stability of the whole.

Critical Theory

A philosophical and sociological approach that critiques and challenges existing social structures and power relations, aiming to promote social justice and emancipation.

Postmodernism

A philosophical and cultural movement that questions and challenges the concepts of objective truth, grand narratives, and fixed meanings, emphasizing the diversity and complexity of social phenomena.

Feminist Theory

A theoretical framework that examines social phenomena from a gendered perspective, highlighting the ways in which gender inequalities and power relations shape individuals' experiences and social structures.

Ethics

The study of moral principles and values that guide human behavior and decision-making. In social science, ethical considerations are important in research and the study of social phenomena.

Ontology

The branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of being and existence. In social science, ontological questions explore the nature of social reality and the existence of social entities.

Epistemology

The branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of knowledge and how knowledge is acquired. In social science, epistemological questions explore the ways in which social knowledge is produced and validated.

Research Design

The overall plan and structure of a research study, including the selection of research methods, data collection procedures, and data analysis techniques.

Methodology

The systematic and theoretical analysis of research methods and the principles underlying them. Methodology guides the overall approach and conduct of a research study.

Quantitative Research

A research approach that focuses on the collection and analysis of numerical data, using statistical methods to identify patterns, relationships, and trends in social phenomena.

Qualitative Research

A research approach that focuses on the collection and analysis of non-numerical data, such as interviews, observations, and textual analysis, to understand the meanings and interpretations of social phenomena.

Data Collection

The process of gathering information and evidence for research purposes. Data collection methods in social science include surveys, interviews, observations, and document analysis.

Data Analysis

The process of organizing, interpreting, and making sense of research data. Data analysis methods in social science include statistical analysis, content analysis, and thematic analysis.

Sampling

The process of selecting a subset of individuals or cases from a larger population for research purposes. Sampling methods in social science include random sampling, stratified sampling, and convenience sampling.

Generalization

The process of applying research findings from a sample to a larger population. Generalization allows researchers to make broader claims and draw conclusions about social phenomena beyond the specific sample studied.

Validity

The extent to which a research study measures what it intends to measure and accurately represents the social phenomena under investigation. Validity is important for ensuring the reliability and credibility of research findings.

Reliability

The consistency and stability of research findings over time and across different researchers or research settings. Reliability is important for ensuring the replicability and trustworthiness of research results.

Ethnography

A qualitative research method that involves immersive fieldwork and participant observation to study and understand the culture and social practices of a particular group or community.

Case Study

An in-depth and detailed analysis of a particular individual, group, or social phenomenon. Case studies provide rich and contextualized insights into specific cases, often using multiple data sources.

Historical Method

A research approach that examines social phenomena by analyzing historical records, documents, and artifacts, aiming to understand the historical context and development of social processes and institutions.

Comparative Method

A research approach that compares and contrasts different cases or groups to identify similarities, differences, and patterns, aiming to understand the causes and consequences of social phenomena.

Social Theory

A set of interconnected ideas and concepts that explain and analyze social phenomena, providing frameworks for understanding the social world and guiding social science research.

Social Change

The process by which societies and social systems undergo significant transformations over time. Social change can be driven by various factors, such as technological advancements, cultural shifts, and political movements.

Rational Choice Theory

A theoretical framework that views individuals as rational actors who make decisions based on their preferences and the expected costs and benefits of different choices.

Symbolic Interactionism

A sociological perspective that focuses on the ways in which individuals interact and communicate through symbols, meanings, and shared understandings, shaping their social identities and relationships.

Conflict Theory

A sociological perspective that emphasizes the role of power, inequality, and social conflict in shaping social structures and processes. Conflict theory highlights the struggles and tensions between different social groups.

Systems Theory

A theoretical framework that views society as a complex system of interconnected parts, where changes in one part can have ripple effects on the entire system. Systems theory emphasizes the interdependence and interrelationships within social systems.

Poststructuralism

A theoretical framework that challenges the fixed meanings and binary oppositions in language and discourse, emphasizing the ways in which power relations and social structures shape knowledge and reality.

Critical Realism

A philosophical and sociological approach that seeks to understand the underlying structures and mechanisms that produce social phenomena, while acknowledging the role of human agency and social context.

Ethnomethodology

A sociological approach that examines the ways in which individuals create and maintain social order through everyday interactions and shared understandings of social norms and rules.

Queer Theory

A theoretical framework that challenges traditional notions of gender and sexuality, questioning the binary categories of male/female and heterosexual/homosexual, and exploring the diversity and fluidity of identities and desires.

Postcolonial Theory

A theoretical framework that examines the legacies of colonialism and imperialism, highlighting the ways in which power relations, cultural identities, and knowledge production are shaped by colonial histories and discourses.

Pragmatism

A philosophical approach that emphasizes the practical consequences and usefulness of ideas and theories, focusing on their practical applications and problem-solving capabilities.

Social Networks

The patterns of social relationships and interactions among individuals, groups, and organizations. Social networks play a crucial role in shaping social behavior, information flow, and social capital.

Social Capital

The resources, connections, and social support that individuals and groups can access through their social networks. Social capital contributes to social cohesion, trust, and collective action.

Power

The ability of individuals or groups to influence or control the behavior, actions, and decisions of others. Power relations shape social hierarchies, inequalities, and social interactions.

Social Inequality

The unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges among individuals and groups in a society. Social inequality is shaped by various factors, such as class, race, gender, and age.

Culture

The shared beliefs, values, norms, symbols, and practices that characterize a particular group or society. Culture shapes individuals' behaviors, identities, and social interactions.

Identity

The sense of self and the social categories to which individuals belong. Identity is shaped by various factors, such as gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, and social roles.

Socialization

The process by which individuals learn and internalize the values, norms, and social expectations of their society. Socialization occurs through social interactions and social institutions, such as family, education, and media.

Social Interaction

The process by which individuals engage with one another, exchanging information, meanings, and emotions. Social interaction is fundamental to the construction of social reality and the formation of social relationships.