Final answer:
The debate between Becker and Gouldner on committed sociology highlights two perspectives: Becker's value neutrality and Gouldner's advocacy for a reflective, value-aware approach. Both discussions provide insights into the ongoing debate about the roles and biases of sociologists in their research, particularly when analyzing contemporary social movements like Occupy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The debate between Howard Becker and Alvin Gouldner on the concept of committed sociology centers on two different perspectives regarding a sociologist's engagement with social issues. Becker, known for his work on deviance and art worlds, emphasized the importance of value neutrality, where researchers should aim to understand and analyze social phenomena without imposing their personal values upon the data. In contrast, Gouldner, a critical sociologist, argued for a committed or reflexive sociology where sociologists should acknowledge and critically engage with their values and biases as part of their research. He challenged the possibility of value-free sociology, arguing that personal and societal values inevitably influence sociological inquiry.
To contextualize their arguments with an example, one could look at the Occupy movement through the lenses of sociologists like Durkheim or Weber, as in the suggested exercise. Durkheim's theories on the collective conscience and social solidarity could be used to understand the shared sentiments and moral purpose that bind the movement's participants. Weber's perspectives on social status and the protestant work ethic could lend insights into the cultural and socioeconomic factors influencing the grievances and motivations of those involved in the Occupy movement.
Both discussions underscore the continuous dialogue in sociology about the role of the researcher, the impact of personal values on scientific inquiry, and the importance of self-awareness and critical reflection in social research. Whether through Becker's or Gouldner's lens, the aim is to deeply comprehend and faithfully represent the complex tapestry of human social life.