A brief note on research philosophies in social science for teaching purpose

A brief note on research philosophies in social science for teaching purpose (information from perplexity.ai)

My question: "Briefly highlight the main ideas of the research philosophies of positivism, interpretivism, pragmatism and critical realism in social science with regard to the following topics: (1) ontology, (2) epistemology, (3) axiology, (4) favored research method design, (5) favored research method design quality criteria, and (6) research ethics issues likely to be encountered."

The reply: "Here is a concise overview of the main ideas of the research philosophies of positivism, interpretivism, pragmatism, and critical realism in social science regarding ontology, epistemology, axiology, favored research method design, favored method quality criteria, and research ethics issues:

1. Positivism:

• Ontology: Objective reality exists independent of human perception.

• Epistemology: Knowledge is derived from observable, empirical data through measurement.

• Axiology: Values and subjective experiences are considered irrelevant; researcher must maintain objectivity.

• Favored method design: Quantitative methods such as experiments, surveys, and statistical analysis.

• Quality criteria: Objectivity, reliability, validity, and control of bias and internal validity threats.

• Research ethics: Emphasis on procedural ethics like informed consent, anonymity, and minimizing risk, with a focus on maintaining neutrality and fairness to participants.

2. Interpretivism:

• Ontology: Reality is socially constructed and subjective, varying by individual perception.

• Epistemology: Knowledge arises through understanding meanings and experiences, involving researcher interpretation.

• Axiology: Values and subjective experiences of participants and researchers are important and acknowledged.

• Favored method design: Qualitative methods such as interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic studies.

• Quality criteria: Credibility, trustworthiness, authenticity, and rich, in-depth understanding.

• Research ethics: Emphasis on relational ethics, respect for participants’ perspectives, informed consent, and reflexivity about researcher bias.

3. Pragmatism:

• Ontology: Reality is both objective and subjective depending on context.

• Epistemology: Knowledge is practical and based on what works to solve problems.

• Axiology: Values practical outcomes and usefulness over abstract theory.

• Favored method design: Mixed methods combining both quantitative and qualitative.

• Quality criteria: Appropriateness to research question, practical relevance, and methodological pluralism.

• Research ethics: Focus on practical implications of research, flexibility in ethical considerations, and participant welfare.

4. Critical Realism:

• Ontology: Reality exists independently but is mediated by human perception and social contexts.

• Epistemology: Knowledge is gained by understanding underlying mechanisms and structures beyond observable phenomena.

• Axiology: Values critique and uncovering power structures; acknowledges researcher values and reflexivity.

• Favored method design: Mixed methods with explanatory focus, combining qualitative and quantitative approaches.

• Quality criteria: Depth of explanation, explanatory power, and consideration of context and mechanisms.

• Research ethics: Attention to power imbalances, social justice, and reflexive researcher responsibility.

This summary synthesizes how each philosophy approaches fundamental social science research principles and ethical considerations."

A collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.