Phenomenology as rhetoric.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Philosophy of Science
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Nursing phenomenology literature emphasizes ontological and epistemological considerations to differentiate from scientific approaches.
• A critical examination of the discourse surrounding nursing phenomenology reveals inherent tensions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze discrepancies between the stated rhetoric and actual practice in nursing phenomenology.
• To evaluate the alignment of phenomenological methods with claims of objectivity and generalizability.

Main Methods:

• Critical analysis of the literature on nursing phenomenology.
• Examination of the rhetorical claims versus the practical application in research reports.

Main Results:

• Phenomenological rhetoric emphasizes subjective experience, yet research practice often results in objective, generalized claims.
• Techniques like bracketing, intended for objectivity, are critiqued as misconceived.
• Despite claims against generalization, most phenomenological studies generalize findings.

Conclusions:

• Nursing phenomenology often illegitimately appropriates scientific prerogatives like objectivity and generalizability.
• The underlying philosophy of phenomenology may be disabling for researchers seeking to make generalizable claims about reality.
• A re-evaluation of the philosophical underpinnings and practical application of nursing phenomenology is warranted.