Question

Regarding David Easton's premises for Behaviouralism, the concept of 'Value Neutrality' aligns most closely with:

• A. Regularities
• B. Verification
• C. Values
• D. Techniques

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Values

David Easton and Behaviouralism

David Easton, a prominent political scientist, is known for his foundational work on behaviouralism in political science. Behaviouralism emphasizes the systematic study of political behavior and processes using scientific methods.

Easton's Premises for Behaviouralism

• Regularities: Political phenomena exhibit regular patterns that can be observed and studied.
• Pace: Political science research should be concerned with verification and explanation, not just description.
• Achievability: Theories should be testable and empirically verifiable.
• Quantification: Research should aim for precise measurement and quantification of political variables.
• Values: This premise is crucial here. Easton argued that the values of the researcher should be kept separate from the research process itself. This is known as value neutrality.
• Systematization: Research should be systematic and organized, leading to the development of theories.
• Non-value Content: Behaviouralism should focus on empirical facts rather than normative judgments or moral values. The study of 'what is' rather than 'what ought to be'.
• Integration: The field of political science should be unified, with findings from different subfields being integrated.

Concept of 'Value Neutrality'

• The principle of value neutrality, as put forth by Easton, suggests that researchers should strive to remain objective and unbiased in their studies.
• It means that personal beliefs, preferences, and moral judgments of the researcher should not influence the collection, analysis, or interpretation of data.
• The focus is on presenting findings based on empirical evidence, allowing the facts to speak for themselves, rather than imposing pre-existing value systems on the subject matter.
• This concept is a cornerstone of scientific inquiry in many disciplines, aiming for objectivity and the establishment of reliable knowledge.

Relevance for Competitive Exams

• Understanding Easton's premises is important for subjects like Principles of Administration and Political Science.
• Value neutrality is a key concept in research methodology, often tested in exams related to social sciences and public administration.
• Questions may ask about the separation of facts and values in research, the role of the researcher's personal beliefs, or the scientific approach to studying political phenomena.