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Objective Vs Interpretive
Objective Vs Interpretive
1
Objective theory
Theory explains the past & present + predicts the
future
Evaluation criteria: relative simplicity; testability &
usefulness
Scientific standards
1. Explanation of the data
2. Prediction of future events
3. Relative simplicity
4. Hypotheses can be tested
5. Practical utility
2
Interpretive theory
Functions: create understanding; identify values;
inspire aesthetic appreciation; stimulate agreement;
reform society
Interpretive standards:
1. New understanding of people
2. Clarification of values
3. Aesthetic appeal
4. A community of agreement
5. Reform of society
3
Similarities
1. An explanation of communication behavior can
lead to further understanding of people’s motivation
2. Both prediction and value clarification look to the
future.
3. ...simplicity has an aesthetic appeal
4. Testing hypotheses is a way of achieving a community
of agreement
5. ...practical...
4
Summary
Objective theory
Interpretive theory
Reference: Griffin, 2009, pp. 27-40