Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
What are the best research philosophies in academia?
Position1 of 6›

Critical Realism

This position presents critical realism as a leading research philosophy in academia. It argues that reality runs far deeper than the senses reveal, so researchers should focus on underlying structures and the bigger picture—advancing historical knowledge while striving for objectivity.

Supporting arguments · 2

  1. Critical realism advances historical knowledge
    Critical realism accounts for a more complete and well-rounded account of history due to its focus on how individual perspective contributes to the whole story.
  2. Critical realism strives for objectivity
    Critical realism is a research philosophy which acknowledges the inherent bias in human observations of the world. This realisation that all humans are biased is used to create greater objectivity in research.