Post positivism
Post-positivism is a philosophical approach that emerged as a critique of positivism in the mid-20th century. Positivism is a scientific and objective approach to knowledge that emphasizes the use of empirical observation and the application of scientific methods to understand the world.
Post-positivism, on the other hand, argues that there are limitations to the positivist approach and that scientific knowledge is always influenced by social, cultural, and historical contexts. It recognizes that human observations and interpretations are inherently subjective and that scientific inquiry cannot be completely objective.
Post-positivists argue for the inclusion of various perspectives and the recognition of multiple truths, rather than seeking to establish a single, objective truth. They emphasize the importance of interpretation, reflexivity, and critical thinking in understanding the world. Post-positivism also acknowledges that theories and concepts are never final and can be revised or discarded based on new evidence or interpretations.
Overall, post-positivism encourages a more nuanced and complex understanding of knowledge, recognizing that it is shaped by various factors and subject to interpretation.
Involve intensive individual interview with small number of respondents to explore their perspectives on particular issues
In the context of post-positivism, conducting intensive individual interviews with a small number of respondents can be seen as a method to explore their perspectives on particular issues. This qualitative approach allows researchers to engage in-depth with participants and gain rich insights into their thoughts, experiences, and beliefs.
Post-positivists recognize that individuals have unique perspectives shaped by their social, cultural, and historical contexts. By conducting intensive individual interviews, researchers aim to uncover the complexity and nuances of these perspectives. This method allows participants to express their views in their own words, providing a deeper understanding of their subjective realities.
In such interviews, researchers may use open-ended questions that encourage participants to elaborate on their thoughts and experiences. This approach enables the exploration of multiple perspectives on a particular issue, acknowledging that there can be various truths and interpretations.
Post-positivist researchers also strive for reflexivity, acknowledging their own biases and subjectivity in the research process. They may engage in ongoing dialogues with participants to clarify and validate their interpretations, ensuring that the research findings are more comprehensive and representative.
Overall, intensive individual interviews with a small number of respondents serve as a means for post-positivist researchers to explore and understand the diverse perspectives individuals hold on specific issues, recognizing the inherent subjectivity and complexity of knowledge.
Post-positivism is a philosophical perspective that emerged as a response to the limitations of positivism, a school of thought emphasizing empirical observations, objective truth, and value neutrality in the pursuit of knowledge. Post-positivists argue that science and knowledge are inherently subjective and influenced by social, cultural, and historical factors.
Here are some key characteristics and ideas associated with post-positivism:
1. Subjectivity: Post-positivists acknowledge the subjective nature of human perception and argue that our understanding of the world is always influenced by our perspectives, experiences, and values.
2. Interpretivism: Post-positivists emphasize the importance of interpretation in understanding social phenomena. They argue that social reality cannot be reduced to simple cause-and-effect relationships, but must be understood within its context and through the meanings attributed by individuals and groups.
3. Social construction of reality: Post-positivists emphasize that reality is not simply given but is socially constructed. They argue that our understanding of reality is shaped through social interactions, language, and shared meanings.
4. Critique of objectivity and neutrality: Post-positivists question the objectivity and neutrality claims of positivism, arguing that researchers cannot completely detach themselves from their biases and values. They argue that researchers should be transparent about their perspectives and acknowledge their potential influence on the research process.
5. Qualitative methods: Post-positivists often support the use of qualitative research methods, such as interviews, observations, and case studies, which allow for a more in-depth exploration of social phenomena and the subjective experiences of individuals.
6. Reflexivity: Post-positivists emphasize the importance of reflexivity, which involves critically examining one's own assumptions, biases, and values throughout the research process. It encourages researchers to be aware of their role in shaping knowledge and to consider multiple perspectives.
It's important to note that post-positivism is not a single, unified theory but rather encompasses a range of perspectives within the philosophy of science and social sciences. Different post-positivists might emphasize different aspects or approaches within this framework.