Research Paradigms from Burrell and Morgan

The video tutorial explores Burrell and Morgan's four paradigms of research: functionalist, interpretive, radical humanist, and radical structuralist. It explains the two primary axes—objective vs. subjective and regulation vs. radical change—that form these paradigms. Each paradigm offers a unique perspective on social reality and research methodology, helping researchers locate their own frame of reference. The tutorial provides examples and discusses the implications of each paradigm in understanding and conducting research.

What are the two primary axes that form the four paradigms?

• Qualitative vs. Quantitative and Micro vs. Macro

• Theory vs. Practice and Stability vs. Change

• Objective vs. Subjective and Regulation vs. Radical Change

• Empirical vs. Theoretical and Static vs. Dynamic

Which paradigm views the world as an objective reality that is stable and organized?

• Interpretive Paradigm

• Radical Humanist Paradigm

• Functionalist Paradigm

• Radical Structuralist Paradigm

What is a key focus of the functionalist paradigm?

• Challenging dominant societal beliefs

• Changing laws and policies

• Understanding individual experiences

• Providing practical solutions to problems

How does the interpretive paradigm view social reality?

• As a set of laws and policies

• As an objective reality waiting to be discovered

• As a network of individual perceptions and experiences

• As a dominant-subordinate arrangement

Which research methods are commonly used in the interpretive paradigm?

• Experimental design and hypothesis testing

• Policy analysis and legal review

• In-depth interviews and participant observation

• Statistical analysis and surveys

What is the main goal of the radical humanist paradigm?

• To provide rational explanations for social affairs

• To change dominant societal beliefs and achieve emancipation

• To understand social reality through individual experiences

• To change laws and policies to address power imbalances

How do radical structuralists aim to address power imbalances?

• By understanding cultural norms

• By changing laws and policies

• By providing practical solutions

• By changing individual perceptions