Single Idea 22366

[catalogued under 2. Reason / A. Nature of Reason / 5. Objectivity]

Full Idea

There is no absolutely objective scientific analysis of 'social phenomena' independent of special and 'one-sided' viewpoints according to which expressly or tacitly, consciously or unconsciously they are selected and organised for expository purposes.

Gist of Idea

There is no objectivity in social sciences - only viewpoints for selecting and organising data

Source

Max Weber ('Objectivity' in Social Sciences and Social Policy [1904], p.72), quoted by Reiss,J/Spreger,J - Scientific Objectivity 5.1

Book Reference

'Stanford Online Encyclopaedia of Philosophy', ed/tr. Stanford University [plato.stanford.edu], p.23


A Reaction

Weber urged some objectivity by not judging agents' goals. Also see Idea 22367

Related Idea

Idea 22367 The results of social research can be true, and not just subjectively valid for one person [Weber]