Throughout sociological history a series of theories and coinciding research have been used in order to better understand the social realm. This paper will attempt to outline the importance of social theory and empirical research in the understanding of society and social behaviour, through the presentation of a range of examples. Within this paper a multitude of key points will be made, including a discussion of the importance of social theory and empirical research within sociology and the relevance of theory and research in the explanation of social phenomena and behaviour. Furthermore, a review of popular theoretical approaches, namely micro, macro, qualitative and quantitative methodologies, will be included. Lastly, this paper will explain
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Kant (cited in Bourdieu 1988, p. 774) states, “that theory without empirical research is empty, empirical research without theory is blind”. This quote encapsulates the relevance and importance of both theory and research. Fawcett (1978, p. 49) substantiates Kant’s claims stating that the use of either theory or empirical research alone condemns findings to be “trivial”. Furthermore, Fawcett (1978, p. 49) explains that only when theory and empirical research are intergraded can findings impact and advance scientific thinking. It is now clear from the presented evidence that both theory and research are integral to the progression of scientific philosophy, however it is also important to note the relevance of theory and research in …show more content…
Hawley (1992, p. 2) explains that macro-sociological theory is based on the idea that society and societal organizations are the product of the aggregate beliefs and actions of the collective. In addition, Knorr Cetina (1981, p. 2) states that the aggregate beliefs of the collective, which form the basis of macro-sociological theory, are usually based on the accumulation of micro encounters. Furthermore, Collins (1981, p. 995) states that macro-sociology is the most viable explanation for abstract entities, such as the “state”, “economy” or “class system”. Many reviews of macro-sociology describe the theory as lacking depth and empirical corroboration (see Collins, 1984; Lenski, 1988). However, Collins (1981, p. 987) explains that without the existence of macro-sociological theory, these large intangible entities could not be
Kant (cited in Bourdieu 1988, p. 774) states, “that theory without empirical research is empty, empirical research without theory is blind”. This quote encapsulates the relevance and importance of both theory and research. Fawcett (1978, p. 49) substantiates Kant’s claims stating that the use of either theory or empirical research alone condemns findings to be “trivial”. Furthermore, Fawcett (1978, p. 49) explains that only when theory and empirical research are intergraded can findings impact and advance scientific thinking. It is now clear from the presented evidence that both theory and research are integral to the progression of scientific philosophy, however it is also important to note the relevance of theory and research in …show more content…
Hawley (1992, p. 2) explains that macro-sociological theory is based on the idea that society and societal organizations are the product of the aggregate beliefs and actions of the collective. In addition, Knorr Cetina (1981, p. 2) states that the aggregate beliefs of the collective, which form the basis of macro-sociological theory, are usually based on the accumulation of micro encounters. Furthermore, Collins (1981, p. 995) states that macro-sociology is the most viable explanation for abstract entities, such as the “state”, “economy” or “class system”. Many reviews of macro-sociology describe the theory as lacking depth and empirical corroboration (see Collins, 1984; Lenski, 1988). However, Collins (1981, p. 987) explains that without the existence of macro-sociological theory, these large intangible entities could not be