IJSRP, Volume 5, Issue 7, July 2015 Edition [ISSN 2250-3153]
Dr. Kasphia Nahrin
Abstract:
Objectivity (value-free) and ethics (rules of conduct) in empirical research are very essential for generating knowledge. However, intrusion of personal, participants and funders’ values (i.e. bias, belief, presuppositions) in research is unavoidable during empirical research process. This article aims to determine the positions of values and ethics in empirical research to achieve reliability, validity and generalizability, and the possibilities to accommodate objectivity and ethical rationally in research. Through content analysis of available literature, this article presents that values of the stakeholders intrude in empirical research both consciously and unconsciously. It is also sometimes problematic to maintain research ethics. This study established that there are opportunities to promote objective research (value-free research) within the premise of value relevance to an expected level. This article claims that appropriate research planning, effective sample design, carefully data collection and interpretation can promote and enhance objectivity of empirical research and achieve research ethics.