1. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)1 Research Methods II Friedel Weinert IHS

2. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)2 Weinert, Can we be Objective? 2Can we be objective? 1How do humans approach the natural world? 1Experimentation and observation is not enough: need conceptualisation ågive objects names åuse sophisticated mathematical symbols åExample åhot/cold water åunreliability of senses åuse temperature scales

3. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)3 Objectivity of scientific terms åreference to natural processes ålawful regularities ålinks between terms and natural world subject to testing Objectivity of observation and experimentation åuse of instruments å reproducibility of results åvariability of tests methods Objectivity of scientific theories åconsistency and coherence åfit and explain available data åpass severe tests Weinert, Can we be Objective?

4. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)4 åwide scope åunification ånew predictions Testability, predictability, coherence and unification are values intrinsic to science. Function: increase rationality of scientific theories Use of extrinsic values lead to fraud, pseudo-scientific theories, political propaganda Question of value neutrality in natural and social sciences Weinert, Can we be Objective? Type of research Choice of Methods Application of research results

5. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)5 *Double Hermeneutics and Reflexivity have dual effect on objectivity of social sciences +use of models +role of virtual participant observer Use of Models. +functional models ~ functional dependence of parameters +hypothetical or as-if models ~ perfectly rational economic agent +ideal types (Weber) ~ as if constructions Role of Models +abstraction, idealisation, systematisation, factualisation Weinert, Can we be Objective?

6. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)6 Weber on Ideal Types Weinert, Can we be Objective? Objective Possibilities heuristic devices bereft of empirical reference fictional Objective probabilities hypothetical models empirical reference constructed types Adequate Causation Hypothetical Models empirical adequacy

7. FWeinert, Bradford University (UK)7 Virtual Participant +How can the social scientist guarantee objectivity? 2Rationally reconstruct all types of social action according to specific rationality principles Weinert, Can we be Objective? Objective World Strategic action truth and effective- ness Social World norm- regulated action normative rightness Subjective World communicative action rational consensus