To what extent is the knowledge we produce determined by the methodologies we use? Discuss with reference to history and one other area of knowledge.

Assumptions of the title

knowledge produced is determined by methodologies

we use methodologies to produce knowledge

Key term: production of knowledge

language, sense perception, emotion, reason, imagination, faith, intuition, and memory

Human Sciences (Psychology)

knowledge is produced through studies

experiments

quasi

natural

lab

field

correlation

observation

interview

focus groups

History

knowledge is produced through primary and secondary sources

if production of knowledge is not determined by methodology, what is it impacted by?

Thesis

In human sciences, knowledge is not determined by the methodology used, as even with varied methodologies, knowledge in human sciences is still objective, though accuracy may be questioned (due to experimental bias, demand characteristics, etc). In History, on the other hand, knowledge is directly shaped by the methodology used, due to varied interpretations by historians, considering the inherent bias/perspective of evidence gathered through the methodology.

primary sources have inherent bias and perspective (diary entries, videos, manuscripts, audio recording)

secondary sources have the perspective of the historian and may selectively utilise evidence to support the historian's interpretation of past events

AOK 1: Human Sciences (Psychology)

knowledge is not determined by the methodology used, as even with varied methodologies, knowledge in human sciences is still objective, though accuracy may be questioned (due to experimental bias, demand characteristics

concepts: objectivity, certainty, explanations, interpretations

Possible RLEs

reliability of eye-witness testimony

AOK 2: History

knowledge is directly shaped by the methodology used, due to varied interpretations by historians, considering the inherent bias/perspective of evidence gathered through the methodology

concepts: evidence, truth, interpretation, responsibility

Possible RLEs

methodology

a way of doing something based on particular principles and methods

needs documentation

research method

structured procedure for bringing about a certain goal

Loftus and Palmer

Yuille and Cutshall

Bengal Famine

Assassination of Indira Gandhi

Aliens: Roswell Incident, Area 51

different school of historians, different methodologies

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