Standing outside the interview process? The illusion of objectivity in phenomenological data generation

Area of Science:

• Philosophy of Science
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Phenomenological interviewing is often assumed to require researcher objectivity.
• Methodological confusion arises from conflating different phenomenological philosophies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To challenge the necessity of researcher objectivity in phenomenological interviewing.
• To differentiate between Husserlian transcendental phenomenology and Heideggerian hermeneutic phenomenology.
• To analyze the impact of these philosophies on the interview process and researcher's role.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical analysis contrasting Husserl and Heidegger.
• Examination of phenomenological interviewing processes.
• Discussion of researcher preconceptions and interviewer bias.

Main Results:

• Failure to distinguish between transcendental and hermeneutic phenomenology leads to methodological confusion.
• Subjectivity is relevant and necessary in phenomenological research, not a hindrance.
• Clearer understanding of philosophical underpinnings enhances research quality.

Conclusions:

• Researcher objectivity is not a prerequisite for rigorous phenomenological interviewing.
• Differentiating phenomenological approaches is crucial for methodological clarity.
• Acknowledging and elucidating researcher subjectivity improves the quality of phenomenological research.