Critical realism

Definition

Critical realism is a philosophical approach that asserts that reality exists independently of our perceptions but emphasizes the importance of social and historical contexts in understanding it. This perspective combines a commitment to realism, which acknowledges the existence of an objective reality, with a critical approach that examines the ways in which our knowledge and understanding of that reality can be shaped by social constructs and human experiences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Critical realism emerged as a response to both traditional realism and anti-realism, seeking to bridge the gap between these two perspectives.
2. This approach emphasizes the importance of stratified ontology, suggesting that reality consists of different layers, including the empirical, actual, and real.
3. Critical realists advocate for a scientific approach that recognizes the complexity of social phenomena and allows for critical analysis of underlying structures.
4. The concept promotes the idea that while we can strive for objective knowledge, our understanding is always mediated through human experience and cultural contexts.
5. Philosophers like Roy Bhaskar have been influential in developing critical realism, particularly in its application to social science research.

Review Questions

• How does critical realism differ from traditional realism and anti-realism in its approach to understanding reality?
  • Critical realism differs from traditional realism by asserting that while an objective reality exists, our understanding of it is influenced by social and historical contexts. Unlike anti-realism, which denies any independent reality, critical realism acknowledges that reality can be known but emphasizes the complexities involved in interpreting it. This approach seeks to provide a more nuanced understanding by combining the strengths of both perspectives while recognizing their limitations.
• In what ways does critical realism's focus on stratified ontology enhance our understanding of social phenomena?
  • Critical realism's focus on stratified ontology enhances our understanding of social phenomena by distinguishing between different levels of reality: the empirical (what we observe), the actual (events as they occur), and the real (underlying mechanisms). This layered perspective allows researchers to analyze not just observable events but also the deeper structures and causes that shape those events. By doing so, critical realism enables a more comprehensive analysis that takes into account both surface-level observations and hidden influences.
• Evaluate the implications of adopting critical realism as a methodological framework in social science research.
  • Adopting critical realism as a methodological framework in social science research has significant implications for how studies are conducted and interpreted. It encourages researchers to acknowledge the complexity of social realities and consider both objective facts and subjective interpretations. This framework promotes a critical examination of underlying structures that influence social phenomena, leading to richer analyses. Furthermore, it fosters interdisciplinary dialogue by bridging gaps between empirical data and theoretical insights, ultimately enhancing the robustness and relevance of research findings.

Related terms

Realism: A philosophical position that holds that objects exist independently of our perceptions or beliefs about them.

Anti-Realism: A stance that denies the existence of an objective reality, arguing that our understanding is shaped entirely by social or linguistic constructs.

Constructivism: An epistemological viewpoint that suggests knowledge is constructed through social processes and interactions rather than discovered from an independent reality.