Qualitative Research: Philosophical Assumptions

Qualitative research encompasses a variety of methodologies that normally begin with a frame of reference or that are guided by philosophical assumptions that “inform the conduct and writing of the qualitative study.”1 In the text Qualitative Inquiry and Research Design: Choosing Among Five Traditions, John W. Creswell provides five philosophical assumptions that lead to the choice behind qualitative research: ontology, epistemology, axiology, rhetorical, and methodological assumptions.2 These assumptions cover a range of questions that drive the researcher and influence the research. Assumptions essentially shape the research and add perspective to the outcomes of the final study. Paradigms or worldviews brought to the research by those …show more content…
Postmodernism could be valuable to the IC such as a “Team B” or “Red Cell” approach whereby alternative teams gather to test already accepted conclusions or create alternative conclusions challenging established views. By considering differing views versus pre-established notions, postmodernism influence could be deemed appropriate for challenging prevailing perspectives. The limitations of postmodernism however may allow for less rigidity in approach and undermine the ability to come to an ultimate conclusion when consensus is …show more content…
14 As one would expect, gender and societal roles dominate the viewpoints in this approach with “identity and self” playing primary roles in describing reality. An example of work dealing with a variety of these themes is Dorinne Kondo’s book, Crafting Selves, on the Japanese workplace. Kondo’s American identity, the male-dominated Japanese workforce, the expectation of female societal roles, and what identity and self are in these perspectives is brought to the forefront.15 Nina Baym, in her essay, “The Agony of Feminism: Why Feminist Theory Is Necessary After All”, acknowledges that there are an array of perspectives even within the interpretive community of feminism.16 In the national security community, because of the culture in Afghanistan and Iraq, the rise of female terrorists, and the discussion of the role of women in combat, the feminist perspective appears to be relevant now more than ever. Cultural sensitivities within Afghanistan and Iraq create challenges for male military personnel interacting with females. Insurgents and terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq have exploited these cultural