Course content

The course will deal with the normative dimension of the social sciences. Partly it will focus on how to do research on values or strongly value related subjects and the researchers’ responsibility and basis for drawing or not drawing normative conclusions. Partly the course will focus on the relation between value questions and empirical research, and to what extent values are empirically researchable. And partly the course will deal with general subjects in research ethics. The teaching will have paradigmatic examples from research and clinical work in medicine, health and social work as its point of departure. The course is situated halfway between a methods and substance, and might on this background be approved both ways.

Learning outcome

The course shall increase the students’ level of reflection on the relation between description and judgement in research. Further on it shall give the students increased competence and confidence in exploring and defending normative dimensions of their own research.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, discussion groups.

Compulsory assignments

• Participation, paper discussion.

Required previous knowledge

Master degree or equivalent.

Course materials

Will be announced at the beginning of the course.