Sharlene Nagy Hesse-Biber on Feminist Research: PART 1

Summary

In this discussion on feminist research, the speaker emphasizes that feminist research is defined not by specific methods but by its perspective, focusing on issues of women's oppression, subjugated knowledge, and social justice. Feminist researchers may use a variety of methods, but their commitment to social change and reflexivity sets their work apart. The speaker highlights the importance of acknowledging one's biases and values, advocating for 'strong objectivity' that emerges from understanding and embracing one's perspective. Feminist research aims to uncover marginalized knowledge, particularly regarding women's diverse experiences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Feminist research isn't defined by the methods, but by the perspective and goals, focusing on women's oppression and social justice.
• 😀 Feminism is diverse—there are many different feminist perspectives, not just a single unified point of view.
• 😀 Feminists work with both qualitative and quantitative methods, blending different approaches based on the research goals.
• 😀 One misconception about feminism is that it’s radical and exclusionary, but feminists come in all forms with varied beliefs.
• 😀 A core principle of feminist research is the commitment to social change and justice, aiming to improve the conditions of marginalized groups.
• 😀 Feminist researchers believe in the importance of reflexivity—acknowledging and reflecting on personal biases during the research process.
• 😀 Feminists strive to dismantle power imbalances between researchers and subjects, ensuring a sensitive and respectful approach to issues of gender and oppression.
• 😀 It's important to listen deeply to the experiences of marginalized groups, particularly women, without imposing preconceptions or gender norms.
• 😀 Feminist research emphasizes the importance of considering intersectionality—recognizing differences based on race, class, and other factors in women’s experiences.
• 😀 Objectivity in feminist research is not about being neutral but about embracing and reflecting on one's own values to reduce bias in the research process.

Q & A

What makes feminist research unique compared to other research methods?

Feminist research is unique because of its perspective rather than its methods. While feminists use a variety of research methods like qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods, what sets feminist research apart is its focus on issues of power, oppression, and social justice, with a commitment to social transformation and inclusivity.

What are some common misconceptions about feminism in research?

A common misconception is that feminism represents a single, unified viewpoint. Many people associate feminism with radical views or negative stereotypes, such as hating men. However, feminism is diverse, encompassing a wide range of beliefs and approaches, with a shared commitment to addressing issues of women's oppression and the power structures that sustain it.

How do feminist researchers approach the issue of power in the research process?

Feminist researchers focus on examining power dynamics between the researcher and the subjects of the research. They emphasize ethical practices such as deeply listening to participants, being sensitive to the balance of power, and acknowledging the potential biases the researcher brings into the project.

Why is reflexivity important in feminist research?

Reflexivity is critical in feminist research because it requires researchers to recognize and reflect on their own biases, values, and perspectives. This self-awareness helps prevent the imposition of personal biases onto the research and ensures more responsible, nuanced findings.

What role does social justice play in feminist research?

Social justice is a central theme in feminist research. Feminist researchers are often motivated by a desire to address social inequalities and work towards positive social change. The ultimate goal is to not only understand women's oppression but to also contribute to transforming society to reduce those inequalities.

How does feminist research handle issues of diversity and difference?

Feminist research is sensitive to issues of diversity and difference, recognizing that women's experiences are shaped by factors such as race, class, age, and culture. Researchers are careful not to make generalized statements about 'women' as a monolithic group and instead focus on understanding the experiences of different groups of women.

What does the statement 'You can't dismantle the Master's house with the Master's tools' mean in the context of feminist research?

'You can't dismantle the Master's house with the Master's tools' is a famous quote by Audre Lorde that suggests feminist research should not rely solely on traditional, patriarchal methods. Instead, feminist researchers are encouraged to develop and use new, more inclusive tools that challenge and resist the power structures they aim to critique.

Can feminist research be quantitative or mixed methods?

Yes, feminist research can include quantitative and mixed methods. While qualitative methods are often emphasized due to their focus on lived experiences and social context, feminist researchers are open to using any method that helps illuminate the issues of power, inequality, and women's experiences.

What does it mean to be 'objective' in feminist research?

In feminist research, objectivity is not about disregarding the researcher's values or biases, as traditional positivist approaches might suggest. Instead, objectivity is achieved through self-awareness and acknowledging those biases. By embracing one's values and reflecting on their impact, feminist researchers can approach their work with a more honest and responsible objectivity.

Why is it important for feminist research to address 'subjugated knowledge'?

Feminist research seeks to uncover and amplify 'subjugated knowledge,' which refers to the marginalized, often silenced, experiences and perspectives of women. By giving voice to these experiences, feminist research aims to challenge dominant narratives and power structures that have historically excluded these voices.