An Introduction to Critical Realism as a Meta-Theoretical Research Perspective

TY - UNPB

T1 - An Introduction to Critical Realism as a Meta-Theoretical Research Perspective

AU - Owens, John

PY - 2011/9

Y1 - 2011/9

N2 - This paper offers an introduction to Roy Bhaskar’s theory of critical realism, presenting it as a distinct meta-theoretical perspective from which research in the social sciences may be conducted. It begins by examining how critical realism emerged in reaction to the inadequacies of strong forms of the positivist and constructionist traditions, before considering the major conceptual and methodological differences between each of these positions. Against this background, critical realism is characterised as a ‘maximally inclusive’ meta-theoretical perspective which is able to accommodate the strengths of both the positivist and constructionist positions while avoiding their weaknesses.

AB - This paper offers an introduction to Roy Bhaskar’s theory of critical realism, presenting it as a distinct meta-theoretical perspective from which research in the social sciences may be conducted. It begins by examining how critical realism emerged in reaction to the inadequacies of strong forms of the positivist and constructionist traditions, before considering the major conceptual and methodological differences between each of these positions. Against this background, critical realism is characterised as a ‘maximally inclusive’ meta-theoretical perspective which is able to accommodate the strengths of both the positivist and constructionist positions while avoiding their weaknesses.

M3 - Working paper

VL - N/A

T3 - Centre for Public Policy Research Working Paper Series

BT - An Introduction to Critical Realism as a Meta-Theoretical Research Perspective

PB - Centre for Public Policy Research, King's College London

CY - London

ER -