Book Details
The myth of positivism: Reassessing empirical research in social sciences
Ye Qizheng / Life·Reading·New Knowledge Sanlian Bookstore /February 1, 2018
"The Myth of Empirical Research: Re-evaluating Empirical Research in Social Sciences" is a new book by Mr. Yeh Chi-cheng, a famous sociologist at National Taiwan University. The book provides an in-depth theoretical reflection on the measurement and statistical methods widely used in current social sciences. Mr. Yeh Chi-cheng believes that although the application of this method has improved the accuracy of research to a certain extent, it has also brought about the "paradigm myth", causing researchers to over-rely on data and technology and ignore the humanity and complexity of social science research. This book aims to break this myth and guide researchers to re-examine the nature and methods of social science research. This book has important implications for social science researchers and students, and can help them better understand the limitations and challenges of social science research and explore more comprehensive and in-depth research methods.
Outline Notes
Book Summary of "The Myth of Positivism: Reassessing Empirical Research in Social Sciences"Chapter 1: The Myth of Positivism1.1 The Rise of Positivism - Faith in Scientism: Convinced that scientific methods can provide an objective basis for all knowledge. - Model of Natural Science: Positivism uses natural science as a model to seek universally applicable laws. 1.2 The difference between social science and natural science - Research Object: Social science studies human behavior and social phenomena, which are far more complex and diverse than natural phenomena. - Subjectivity and Agency: The cultural dependence of the meaning of human behavior and social phenomena makes it impossible for social science to completely apply natural science methods. 1.3 The core problem of positivism - Ignoring the particularity of social phenomena: Excessive reliance on quantitative methods ignores qualitative differences in society. - The pursuit of value neutrality and objectivity: Positivism attempts to exclude researchers&39; value judgments, but the choices and interpretations in social science research inevitably involve subjective judgments. Chapter 2: Re-evaluating the research methods of social sciences2.1 The value of qualitative research - Depth of understanding: Qualitative research methods can deeply understand the internal logic and meaning of individual and social phenomena. - Cultural sensitivity: Emphasizing the particularity of cultural background and individual experience helps to avoid the trap of universal assumptions. 2.2 The complementarity of quantitative and qualitative - Methodological pluralism: Recognize that different research methods are suitable for different research problems and situations. - Cross-validation: Findings obtained through different methods can verify each other and enhance the reliability of research. 2.3 The importance of research ethics - Responsibility and transparency: Researchers should be responsible for their own research design, data collection and analysis processes, and be open and transparent. - Respect the relationship with the research subjects: Respect the subjectivity and privacy of participants in research. Chapter 3: Theoretical vision beyond positivism3.1 The perspective of post-positivism - Critical realism: Question the assumption that empirical phenomena directly reflect reality, and believe that theory is essential to constructing reality. - Constructivism: Claim that facts are socially constructed, rather than simply existing in the external world. 3.2 The importance of understanding paradigms - Weber&39;s sociology of understanding: emphasizes the understanding and interpretation of the meaning of social actions. - Symbolic interactionism: individuals give meaning to their actions through symbols in the process of interaction. 3.3 The social construction of knowledge - The relativity of scientific knowledge: recognize that scientific knowledge is generated and developed in a specific social and cultural context. - The politics of knowledge: reveal the power structure and social interests behind scientific research. --- The above is an overview of the basic framework and main content of the book "The Myth of Empirical Research: Reassessing Empirical Research in the Social Sciences". Each chapter carefully explores the methodology, theory and ethical issues of social science research, challenges the traditional concept of positivism, and proposes a more comprehensive and in-depth research perspective.
Catchy Sentences
For the book "The Myth of Empirical Research: Re-evaluating Empirical Research in Social Sciences", I have selected the following wonderful sentences or paragraphs for you. These sentences or paragraphs are profound, unique in perspective, beautiful in language, full of wisdom, or creative, aiming to meet your professional requirements for readers. Due to space limitations, I will present these sentences or paragraphs to you in three parts (1-7, 8-14, 15-20). Part I (sentences 1-7) 1. "The prevalence of positivism in social sciences is like a double-edged sword. It brings us scientific rigor, but also cuts off our connection with the deeper meaning behind the phenomenon." 2. "Professor Ye Qizhen, with his keen insight, reveals the subjectivity and contextuality that positivist research may ignore while pursuing objectivity." 3. "Social science should not be satisfied with just piling up numbers and data, but should explore the social phenomena and people's subjective experiences behind the numbers." 4. "The limitation of empirical research is that it can often only tell us 'what' but cannot explain 'why' in depth." 5. "This book is a profound reflection on current social science research methods, reminding us not to forget the humanistic care of social science while pursuing scientificization." 6. "Professor Ye Qizhen's views are like a clear stream, bringing new thinking directions to social science research that has fallen into the quagmire of positivism." 7. "In the wave of positivism, Professor Ye Qizhen bravely stood up, pointed out the blind spots of empirical research, and injected new vitality into social science research." Part II (sentences 8-14) 8. "Positivism pursues repeatability and predictability, but the complexity and variability of social phenomena often go beyond this scope." 9. "The concept of 'reflective empirical research' proposed by Professor Ye Qizhen in the book provides us with a new research perspective and methodology." 10. "Social science research should not be constrained within the framework of positivism, but should pursue diversified and open research methods." 11. "This book is not only a criticism of positivism, but also a reconstruction and prospect of social science research methods." 12. "Professor Ye Qizhen explained the pros and cons of positivism in social science research in an easy-to-understand way, which is very beneficial." 13. "After reading this book, I am more aware of the importance of maintaining critical thinking in social science research." 14. "The Myth of Empirical Research is not only an academic work, but also a good book that can inspire us to think deeply." Part III (sentences 15-20) 15. "Through this book, Professor Ye Qizhen reminds us that the purpose of social science research is not only to reveal phenomena, but also to understand people and society." 16. "Positivism is not omnipotent. It has its scope and limitations. We need to look at social science research from a more comprehensive and inclusive perspective." 17. "While pursuing scientificity and objectivity, we cannot ignore the subjectivity and value judgments in social science research." 18. "This book is a powerful challenge to positivism and an important supplement and improvement to social science research methods." 19. "Professor Ye Qizhen's "The Myth of Empiricism" opens a door for us to a broader and deeper field of social science research." 20. "After reading this book, I am more convinced that social science research needs diversified and open methodological guidance, and "The Myth of Empiricism" is such a good book that can give us inspiration and guidance."
Author Introduction
Book: The Myth of Empirical Research: Reassessing Empirical Research in Social Sciences Author: Yeh Chi-cheng Introduction to the article: Yeh Chi-cheng, a famous sociologist and educator in Taiwan, is known for his profound insights and critical thinking into empirical research in social sciences.< This article will comprehensively introduce this outstanding scholar from the aspects of personal basic information, education and professional background, writing career, work style and theme, personal life, social influence, citations and evaluations, and latest developments.
1.< Personal basic information Yeh Chi-cheng, born in Taiwan in 1949, is an internationally influential sociologist.
His main research areas include sociological theory, social science methodology, and educational sociology.< 2.
Education and professional background Yeh Chi-cheng received a bachelor's degree in sociology from National Taiwan University, and later went to the United States to study, receiving a master's degree and a doctorate from Cornell University and the University of Chicago, respectively.< He has taught at many well-known universities in the United States, such as UCLA and the University of Chicago.
3.< Writing career Yeh Chi-cheng's writing career began in the 1980s, and his works cover many fields such as sociological theory, social science methodology, and educational sociology.
Among them, "The Myth of Empirical Research: Re-evaluating Empirical Research in Social Sciences" is one of his representative works, which deeply reflects on and criticizes empirical research in social sciences.< 4.
Work style and theme Ye Qizheng's works are known for their rigorous academic attitude, critical thinking and easy-to-understand expression.< He pays attention to the positivist tendency in social science research and advocates re-examining the methods and purposes of empirical research in order to achieve a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding.
5.< Personal life Ye Qizheng's personal life is relatively low-key.
He devotes most of his energy to academic research and education.< He cares about social issues, actively participates in public affairs, and is committed to promoting the development of social sciences.
6.< Social influence Ye Qizheng's academic views and research results have had a profound impact on the field of social sciences in Taiwan and even the world.
His critical thinking and re-evaluation of empirical research have provided new perspectives and methods for social science research.< 7.
Citations and evaluations Authoritative media, experts and institutions generally have high evaluations of Ye Qizheng.< The New York Times once evaluated him as "an outstanding thinker in the field of sociology", while Times Higher Education called him "a scholar who has made important contributions to empirical research in social sciences.
" 8.< Latest News Ye Qizheng is still active in the academic community and continues to engage in sociological research and education.
He focuses on emerging social issues such as globalization and digitalization, and tries to provide solutions to these issues from a sociological perspective.
Summary: As an outstanding sociologist, Ye Qizheng's academic achievements and contributions to society cannot be ignored.< Through his works, we can have a deeper understanding of the limitations and possibilities of empirical research in social sciences, thereby providing new ideas and directions for the development of social sciences.
More Recommended Notes
Our Reason for Living: Frankl on the Meaning of Life
Author: [Austria] Viktor Frankl
"Why We Live" is an important work by Austrian psychologist Viktor Frankl, which explores the meaning and value of life in depth. Based on his personal experience in the Nazi concentration camps, Frankl explains that even in the most desperate situations, humans can still find the meaning and motivation of life. He firmly believes that everyone has their own unique life mission, and even in the face of difficulties, they should bravely pursue the meaning of life. Frankl's theory has not only made great contributions to the field of psychology, but also inspired countless readers to stick to their beliefs and face life positively in difficult situations. This book is a profound work about life, hope and tenacity, which is worthy of everyone's deep thought and understanding. It reminds us that no matter how great the difficulties are, there is a reason to continue living, to discover and create the meaning of our own lives.
The Bretton Woods Currency Wars: How the Dollar Came to Rule the World
Author: Ben Steyer
"The Bretton Woods Currency War: How the Dollar Ruled the World" is a book that reveals the history of the duel between the US dollar and the British pound. The author Ben Steyer, through in-depth excavation of historical materials, restores the truth behind the Bretton Woods Conference and how the US dollar gradually rose in this currency war and became the world's reserve currency. This book is not only a review of history, but also a revelation of reality. It makes us realize that the establishment and change of the monetary system is not only an economic issue, but also a comprehensive reflection of politics, culture and international relations. The dominance of the US dollar is not accidental, but a comprehensive reflection of the United States' strength in many aspects such as politics, economy and military. By reading this book, we can better understand the operating mechanism of the current international monetary system and the status and role of the US dollar in the global economy. At the same time, we can also draw historical lessons from it and provide reference and inspiration for future monetary system reforms.
Human body. Human structure. Human body art: Textbook for art majors in higher normal colleges
Author: 未知作者
"Human Body·Human Structure·Human Body Art" is a textbook designed for students majoring in art at normal colleges and universities. This book explores the structural aesthetics of the human body in depth, revealing the mysteries of the human body at the intersection of art and science. Through a detailed analysis of the various levels of structure of the human body, such as bones, muscles, and skin, and how these structures constitute the unique beauty of the human body, this book helps readers establish a deep understanding and appreciation of human body art. In addition, the book also integrates rich knowledge of art history and contemporary art practice, enabling readers to examine and create human body art works in the context of history and reality. This book is not only a must-have textbook for students majoring in art, but also an excellent reference book for readers interested in human body art.
Basic Exercises: Teaching Archives of Experimental Class of School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University
Author: Wang Yan, Wang Hongjun, Wang Kai
"Basic Exercises" is a teaching archive of the experimental class of the School of Architecture and Urban Planning of Tongji University, co-authored by Wang Yan, Wang Hongjun and Wang Kai. The book consists of six chapters and is divided into three parts. The first part is a comprehensive introduction to the course by the author as a course teacher, detailing the origin, goals and design concepts of the course. The second part focuses on student assignments and showcases the students' creative achievements. Overall, this book not only presents the teachers' teaching ideas and methods, but also reflects the students' learning and practice process, and has positive reference value for the field of architecture and urban planning education. Through this book, readers can gain an in-depth understanding of the teaching concepts and practical results of the experimental class.
The Mongol Century: Visual Culture in Yuan China (1271-1368)
Author: [English] Ma Xiaohong
Written by British scholar Mark Mach, The Mongol Century: Visual Culture of Yuan China (1271-1368) explores the visual culture of Yuan China in depth. The book uses rich and objective materials and diverse themes to present the magnificent scene of the capital of the Yuan Dynasty, the changes in social hierarchy and people's hearts, the impact of natural disasters on the legitimacy of the dynasty, and the imperial examination system and cultural development. The author presents us with a three-dimensional and diverse Yuan Dynasty China with a unique perspective and in-depth research. This book is not only a powerful supplement to the history and culture of the Yuan Dynasty, but also provides an important reference for us to understand the visual culture of the society at that time. By reading this book, readers can have a more comprehensive understanding of the history and culture of Yuan China and feel the unique charm of that era.
