04:192:200 Lecture Notes - Lecture 4: Logical Positivism, Postpositivism, Auguste Comte
15 Feb 2019
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Document Summary
Many theoretical approaches can and do exist in the comm discipline. Various theoretical schools are guided by different paradigms. Paradigms are and are not compatible with each other. Knowledge must move beyond theological and mystical to scientific/positive. Foundation of knowledge is in observable phenomena and formal logic. Logical positivists seen as detached from workings of actual scientists. Seperation between knower/known exists but is only partial. Values-free research, not completely possible; try to keep values out of analytic process. Human will/voluntarism deterministic: pattered behaviors seen as a result of shared environment, structures, etc. Often thought of as variables in scientific research. Who, what, when, and where the theory applies. Prediction: explaining what might happen in a similar situation. Relies on scientific method in development and testing of theory. Maximizes objectivity/scientific rigor provides legitimacy/allows for casual understanding. Method of conjecture and refutation seen as ideal for science.
