An Introduction to the Philosophy of Methodology

by Kerry E Howell

Overview

This book provides students with a concise introduction to the philosophy of methodology. The book stands apart from existing methodology texts by clarifying in a student-friendly and engaging way distinctions between philosophical positions, paradigms of inquiry, methodology and methods. Building an understanding of the relationships and distinctions between philosophical positions and paradigms is an essential part of the research process and integral to deploying the methodology and methods best suited for a research project, thesis or dissertation.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781446202999
Publisher:	SAGE Publications
Publication date:	11/29/2012
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	248
Product dimensions:	6.70(w) x 9.40(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Kerry E. Howell holds the Chair of Governance and Leadership and currently acts as Director of Research in Plymouth University Business School.

Table of Contents

About the author viii

Preface ix

1 Introduction: Problems Identified 1

2 Explaining and Understanding Theory 19

3 Empiricism, Positivism and Post-positivism 32

4 Aspects of Phenomenology 55

5 Critical Theory 75

6 Constructivism and Participatory Paradigms of Inquiry: Introducing Action Research 88

7 Postmodernism and Post-structuralism 101

8 Ethnography 117

9 Grounded Theory 131

10 Hermeneutics 154

11 Michel Foucault 168

12 Reliability, Generalisation and Reflexivity: Identifying Validity and Trustworthiness 182

13 Methods of Data collection 193

14 General Conclusion 211

Glossary 218

References 225

Index 233