Critical Realist Ontology

Definition

Critical realist ontology is a philosophical perspective that asserts the existence of a reality independent of human perception while recognizing that our understanding of this reality is always mediated through social constructs and interpretations. It bridges the gap between realism and idealism, emphasizing that knowledge is fallible and shaped by both empirical evidence and social contexts, making it a useful framework for understanding complex social phenomena.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Critical realism was developed by philosopher Roy Bhaskar in the 1970s as a response to both positivism and interpretivism in social science research.
2. It posits that while there is a reality that exists independently of our perceptions, our understanding of it is always influenced by cultural, historical, and social factors.
3. Critical realist ontology allows researchers to consider both the objective reality and the subjective experiences of individuals, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.
4. This perspective encourages a focus on underlying structures and mechanisms that generate observable events, rather than just the events themselves.
5. It advocates for a stratified view of reality, where different layers exist (like physical, social, and psychological), each influencing one another in complex ways.

Review Questions

• How does critical realist ontology differentiate itself from traditional forms of realism and idealism?
  • Critical realist ontology sets itself apart from traditional realism by acknowledging the existence of a reality independent of human perception while also recognizing that our understanding of this reality is shaped by our interpretations. Unlike idealism, which emphasizes the mind's role in creating reality, critical realism balances both perspectives by proposing that there are underlying structures influencing observable phenomena. This dual acknowledgment allows for a nuanced approach to studying social realities.
• In what ways does critical realist ontology influence research methodology in social sciences?
  • Critical realist ontology influences research methodology by promoting mixed methods approaches that incorporate both quantitative and qualitative data. It encourages researchers to explore not only observable events but also the deeper structures and mechanisms behind those events. This leads to a richer understanding of social phenomena as it accounts for both objective realities and subjective experiences, allowing for more holistic findings.
• Evaluate the implications of adopting a critical realist ontology for understanding complex social issues such as inequality or health disparities.
  • Adopting a critical realist ontology to study complex social issues like inequality or health disparities has profound implications. It allows researchers to go beyond surface-level observations to investigate the underlying structures, such as socioeconomic factors, institutional policies, and historical contexts that contribute to these issues. This approach fosters a deeper comprehension of how these factors interconnect and influence individuals' experiences. By recognizing both the objective realities and subjective perceptions involved, critical realism promotes comprehensive solutions that address root causes rather than just symptoms.

Related terms

Ontology: The branch of philosophy concerned with the nature of being, existence, and reality, exploring questions about what entities exist and how they can be categorized.

Epistemology: The study of knowledge and justified belief, focusing on the nature, sources, limitations, and validity of knowledge.

Social Constructivism: A theory that emphasizes the role of social processes and interactions in the formation of knowledge, suggesting that meaning and understanding are constructed through social contexts.