Which term means the absence of bias, where the researchers' values or feelings do not influence the research?

Which term means the absence of bias, where the researchers' values or feelings do not influence the research?

• A. Bias
• B. Hypothesis
• C. Objectivity
• D. Random sampling

Answer: (C)

Objectivity means approaching research in a way that keeps personal feelings, beliefs, and preferences from shaping what is observed, how data are collected, or how findings are interpreted. When researchers are objective, they aim to let the evidence guide conclusions, using clear methods, explicit procedures, and transparent reporting so others can check and replicate the work. This is different from bias, which is a tendency to see or interpret evidence in ways that favor a preconception. A hypothesis is simply a testable statement guiding inquiry, not the absence of bias. Random sampling helps ensure a representative sample, reducing sampling bias, but it doesn’t by itself guarantee that the entire research process is free of bias.

Objectivity means approaching research in a way that keeps personal feelings, beliefs, and preferences from shaping what is observed, how data are collected, or how findings are interpreted. When researchers are objective, they aim to let the evidence guide conclusions, using clear methods, explicit procedures, and transparent reporting so others can check and replicate the work. This is different from bias, which is a tendency to see or interpret evidence in ways that favor a preconception. A hypothesis is simply a testable statement guiding inquiry, not the absence of bias. Random sampling helps ensure a representative sample, reducing sampling bias, but it doesn’t by itself guarantee that the entire research process is free of bias.