A critique of compromise: beyond the methods debate

Area of Science:

• Nursing Research
• Scientific Philosophy
• Methodological Pluralism

Background:

• The ongoing debate in nursing research centers on the suitability of quantitative versus qualitative methodologies.
• Previous resolutions have suggested that the choice of method depends on the specific research problem.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the fundamental ontological, epistemological, and value-based differences underlying the quantitative vs. qualitative research methods debate in nursing.
• To reveal how compromise solutions may obscure critical issues essential for advancing nursing science.
• To identify the implications of these underlying choices for nursing practice.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical analysis of the nursing research methods debate.
• Explication of hidden assumptions and choices within methodological discussions.
• Identification of implications for nursing practice.

Main Results:

• The quantitative vs. qualitative methods debate in nursing is a surface manifestation of deeper philosophical disagreements.
• Compromise solutions obscure fundamental issues in ontology, epistemology, values, and intentions.
• Understanding these hidden choices is vital for the progression of nursing science.

Conclusions:

• Nursing science advancement requires addressing the fundamental philosophical underpinnings of research methodologies.
• The choice of research methods is intrinsically linked to underlying philosophical stances.
• Explicitly addressing these foundational issues will better inform nursing practice.