Values and Ethics in Research

Start with values and objectivity

Begin with Sociology, Objectivity & Values, a mind map that introduces the argument that values can and should be kept out of research. Then open Value Freedom Debate to look at what value freedom means and the view that sociology should be value free when it uses methods similar to those of natural sciences.

As you study, note the distinction between choosing what to research and keeping values out of the research itself. A mind map on objectivity and values in sociology presents this distinction through Weber’s ideas about value judgments and facts.

Explore ethical issues

Next, use the research methods mind map that introduces ethical issues as questions about right and wrong conduct in sociological research. The flashcard deck on ethical factors in choosing a method gives you terms to work with, including informed consent, confidentiality, privacy and the effects on participants. It also refers to vulnerable groups, covert research and the right to refuse.

Try explaining each term in your own words, then return to the cards to check what they cover. You can also open Values and Ethics to explore another mind map in the collection.

Use maps and flashcards together

There are no quizzes on this page, so use the flashcards for question-based study alongside the maps. Objectivity & Values in Sociology includes questions about positivists, interpretivists and objective knowledge. After working through them, return to the value freedom map and add a short summary to your notes.

Connect the topic to Research Methods

Values and Ethics in Research is a section of the Research Methods unit in Sociology. The resources help you consider both ideas about value freedom and ethical choices in conducting research. Choose a mind map and a flashcard deck to study together.