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Outline and explain two reasons why official statistics should not be seen as social facts. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 6
Outline and explain two reasons why official statistics should not be seen as social facts.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Outline and explain two reasons why official statistics should not be seen as social facts. - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 6 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Reason 1: Official Statistics are Socially Constructed
Answer
Official statistics are generated through specific methodologies that select and define what data is relevant, which means they can reflect the biases and values of those creating them. For example, various categories for demographic data may change based on who is in power or what interests are being prioritized, leading to skewed representations of social realities.
Step 2
Reason 2: Official Statistics can be Ideologically Biased
Answer
Official statistics may serve particular political or ideological agendas, influencing how data is collected and presented. This can lead to manipulation or selective reporting, where only certain statistics are highlighted to support a specific narrative, detracting from a full understanding of social facts.