Which research perspective emphasizes the use of quantitative methods?

The choice reflecting the correct answer highlights positivism, which is a research perspective firmly rooted in the belief that the social sciences should be studied using the same scientific methods as the natural sciences. This includes an emphasis on quantitative methods, such as statistical analysis and surveys, which produce measurable and generalizable data. Positivists advocate for the objective measurement of social phenomena, seeking to identify patterns and establish causal relationships through empirical data.

By focusing on quantitative data, positivism aims to produce reliable, replicable results that can be compared across different contexts. This method allows researchers to generate theories based on observable and quantifiable evidence, thus striving for a level of predictability and objectivity similar to that found in the hard sciences.

The other perspectives—interpretivism, constructivism, and critical theory—tend to prioritize qualitative methods that focus more on subjective experiences, social contexts, and the meanings individuals attach to their actions. These approaches generally emphasize depth over breadth, aiming for a richer understanding of social phenomena rather than solely relying on numerical data.