Revija za sociologiju, Vol. 3 No. 3-4, 1973.
Stručni rad
About Advantages and Disadvantages of Qualitative Approach in Sociology
Ivan Kuvačić
; Odsjek za sociologiju, Filozofski fakultet Zagreb, Đure Salaja 3
Sažetak
It is shown that the reaffirmation of the qualitative methods in Sociology is related to the so-called radical stand which is opposed to the tendencies of uncritical use of academic quantitative exactness, even if the human and social content of social science is at stake. Also a discontent with the growing dependence of the sociologist on the administration in proportion to the applications of modern research techniques is a parallel tendency. Those seeking independence are finding it in the direct participative observation becoming at the same time less professional, as they leave behind the complex laboratory apparatus. This automatically causes them to shrink considerably their activity radius and turn their attention once again to smaller social communities, organizations and groups. So the general objection to the piecemeal analysis by the quantitative approach is applicable to the qualitative one too, though for different reasons. The most conspicuous weakness of the first one is reflected in the tendency of »data collecting empiricism« which is completely neglecting theory. It is difficult to accept the suggestion that the theory is going to emerge in the course of data interpreting, as it is very well known that many significant contributions start with some idea which is elaborated and confirmed in the course of scientific research. Such is the example of study on prostitution conducted by Thomas in 1923 (Unadjusted Girl) which has retained its significance up to know not for its results, but because of its main idea which proved influential in further sociological work. Similar is the case of Sutherland's study on the professional thief (The Professional Thief, 1937), which elaborates and confirms the idea of the production of supply and demand of criminal behavior as the capitalist society characteristic. Recently published Eleanor Lang’s study on system of management and human relations in New York's Central Post Office is significant for its proving the Orwell’s idea of infernal perspective in the development of modern bureaucracy. All. these works and many others, although a product of a very simple scientific apparatus, prove that the modest, small-range research guided by a well defined idea can obtain wide significance, and are precious for the development of science. This assertion by no means stems from a negative attitude towards the modern scientific instruments. It is evident that they are indispensable in helping the researcher to be more efficient, especially when they are combined with human perception and insight. But, as these instruments are not accessible to all and very often not to some of great ideas as well as motivation, the qualitative methodology is not necessarily only an emergency exit, but a place where the stay is agreable and fruitful as well.
Ključne riječi
Hrčak ID:
156479
URI
Datum izdavanja:
31.12.1973.
Posjeta: 989 *