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Positionality and Its Problems: Questioning the Value of Reflexivity Statements in Research.
Jukka Savolainen1, Patrick J Casey2, Justin P McBrayer3
1Department of Sociology, Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, Wayne State University.
Summary
Positionality statements in research are problematic. Scholars should focus on collective truth-seeking and methodological rigor, not personal disclosures, to reduce bias and enhance research integrity.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Science
- Research Methodology
Background:
- Growing trend of incorporating positionality statements (reflexivity statements) in scientific publications.
- Positionality statements aim to address concerns regarding the limitations of knowledge production.
Purpose of the Study:
- Critically evaluate the utility and implications of positionality statements in scholarly research.
- Propose alternative strategies for enhancing research integrity and reducing bias.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical analysis of the concept and application of positionality statements.
- Argumentative critique based on principles of scientific progress and impartiality.
Main Results:
- Positionality statements are inherently limited by the subjectivity they aim to address.
- Reducing bias relies on collective, rigorous research processes, not individual biographical disclosures.
- Mandatory self-disclosure can undermine research impartiality and established scientific norms.
Conclusions:
- Scholarly communities should avoid positionality statements due to their inherent limitations and potential to undermine research integrity.
- Focus should shift towards strengthening intersubjective competition, methodological transparency, and rigor.
- Protecting freedom of scholarly input while ensuring robust methodology is key to reducing bias and increasing representation.
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