eBook - ePub

Constructivism and the Metaphysics of Qualitative Research

Name: Constructivism and the Metaphysics of Qualitative Research
ISBN: 9781040152355

John Paley,

338 pages
English
ePUB (mobile friendly)
Available on iOS & Android

eBook - ePub

Constructivism and the Metaphysics of Qualitative Research

John Paley,

About this book

This book challenges the widespread assumption that a necessary preliminary to qualitative research is the formulation of ontological and epistemological beliefs. It argues that the metaphysical claims which supposedly underpin different approaches to social research do not make sense. Literally. Sentences such as 'There is a single objective reality' and 'There are multiple constructed realities' fail to make information-providing statements. They do not refer or describe. Despite appearances, they say nothing about reality (or realities) at a fundamental level, so they cannot be used to justify, ground, or align with, methodological decisions. The 'necessary preliminary' turns out not to be necessary at all; and we can dispense with, not just 'paradigms', but metaphysical underpinnings in general, whether structured as paradigms or not.

Drawing on Wittgenstein's later philosophy, Carnap's metametaphysics, and contemporary linguistics, the book suggests that the metaphysical claims of qualitative texts can be reinterpreted as performative. Ontological and epistemological beliefs are resolutions and proposals, recommendations for the use of language. They form part of a creed by means of which researchers enact the joining of an academic community. Written in Paley's trademark clear, accessible and conversational style, the book points to a revolution in our understanding of the relation between metaphysics and social research. It will be essential reading for anyone interested in qualitative research and its philosophical foundations.

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Yes, you can access Constructivism and the Metaphysics of Qualitative Research by John Paley in PDF and/or ePUB format, as well as other popular books in Psychology & Social Science Research & Methodology. We have over one million books available in our catalogue for you to explore.