Research Methods

Explain why it is important to remain objective while doing a research

Objectivity can be defined as

“the basic conviction that there is or must be some permanent,

ahistorical matrix or framework to which we can ultimately appeal

in determining the nature of rationality, knowledge, truth, reality,

goodness, or rightness.”

(Bernstein 1983: 8)

to remain objective while doing a research is important because research is something that is for the public and it offers knowledge about the social world that cannot be gained by other means. Therefore, it is important the research it is unbiased not just a reflection of ones own opinion. It must be fair and unprejudiced. The findings may challenge ones own beliefs of that of the public. A research is objective when it has a neutral viewpoitn

The Introduction noted that objectivity, along with generalization and

explanation, were considered as fundamental characteristics of a science.

After all, if we are to hold to the view that social science research offers

us knowledge about the social world which is not necessarily available

by other means, then we are making some privileged claims about our

work. Research thus becomes more than a reflection of our opinions and

prejudices: it substantiates, refutes, organizes or generates our theories

and produces evidence which may challenge not only our own beliefs,

but also those of society in general.

It is at this point that the debate over objectivity in the social sciences

enters. It is often assumed that if our values do not enter into our

research, it is objective and above criticism. Objectivity is therefore

defined as

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