Doing Social Science Better

The transcript explores the enhancement of social science research through rigorous philosophical approaches and contemporary metaphysical tools. It emphasizes the importance of fieldwork and real-world experiences, particularly in anthropology and historical studies. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of cultural ideas and their impact on scientific inquiry, contrasting the interpretive nature of social sciences with the objective approach of natural sciences.

What is emphasized as crucial for enhancing social science research?

• Focusing solely on natural sciences

• Using outdated tools

• Ignoring preconceived notions

• Adopting a philosophical approach

What tension does the speaker describe in their academic journey?

• Between fieldwork and theoretical studies

• Between different historical periods

• Between science and art

• Between anthropology and sociology

How does the speaker view their role in anthropology?

• As a historian

• As a philosopher

• As a sociologist

• As a historical anthropologist

What does the speaker suggest about the interconnectedness of social elements?

• They can be studied separately

• They are unrelated

• They are only relevant in history

• They are interconnected and inseparable

What does the speaker suggest about cultural ideas in science?

• They only affect social sciences

• They are irrelevant to scientific progress

• They have no impact

• They shape scientific questions and answers

How does the speaker suggest approaching exceptions in research?

• Explain them away

• Use them to develop new ideas

• Ignore them

• Consider them as errors

What is a key difference between natural and social sciences according to the speaker?

• Social sciences seek invariant laws

• Social sciences are interpretive

• Natural sciences are subjective

• Natural sciences focus on intentionality

What is the role of intentionality in social sciences?

• It is central to understanding actions

• It is a minor consideration

• It is ignored

• It is only relevant in natural sciences

What does the speaker mean by 'interpretive art' in social sciences?

• It is unrelated to human actions

• It is based on scientific laws

• It involves creating art

• It requires ascribing beliefs and desires

What is the speaker's view on the study of politics as a science?

• It is a rigorous intellectual exercise

• It lacks scientific basis

• It cannot be a science

• It is identical to natural sciences