Discovery and dialectics: Gerhard Kleining's methodology of qualitative research

摘要: "[N]either Method nor Theory alone can be taken as part of the actual work social studies. In fact, both are often just opposite: they statesmanlike withdrawals from problems science. Usually, we have seen, based on some grand model inquiry with which other people beat head. That this is not capable altogether full use not, perhaps, too important, for it may still used ritualistically." (Mills 1970 (originally 1959): 136). This paper aims to present Hamburg sociologist Gerhard Kleining's perspective methodology qualitative research an English-speaking audience. a context where methodological discussion seems become more or less concentrated specific fields there value in opening up otherwise neglected issues and presenting unfamiliar perspectives familiar problems, even if that means seeming bit nai¶¥. By exploring central argument, direct discovery (and simply interpretation) reality made possible by strategy openness (rather than closure) research, I want examine destinations might reach following alternative paths (1). In will try bracket far question whether Kleining right his arguments. This partly "post-methodological" move: think raised ultimately unresolveable ones, at least within sciences. The argument between materialist idealist approaches case point: cite philosophers psychologists support our own points view, but clear me scientists resolve these (if fact resolution possible). Similarly, relational conceptions humanity what has known "methodological individualism" (2) (Elster 1985: 5-8) open genuine except insofar so many qualifiers built models render them indistinguishable practice. rational explicitly non-rational modes thought definition one resolved through (3). Lastly, impossible devise method demonstrate validity any statement about how human beings investigate statements themselves. "Human beings", says Marx, "have truth, i.e. power, this-worldliness their thought, practice" (Marx n.d.: 113), take matter ultimate validity. My aim paper, then, interest approach; first give account its terms. Following this, attempt isolate important theoretical approach, particularly relation Marxist tradition. identify useful insights into practical offered opened approach.