Epistemology and methodology of exploratory research in the social sciences: Crossing Popper with Marcuse

Abstract

Karl Popper demonstrates that induction does not lead to truth, and suggests that deduction is the only way to reach scientific statements. At the same time, he shows that theories and hypotheses are mental models that cannot be proved with empirical evidence. As a result, neither deduction nor induction is capable of producing «the truth.» From this reasoning, and taking into account the advancements in feminist epistemology on standpoints,
as well as the recent work on case studies, it is worth re-evaluating
induction and heuristic-explorative research. This article details the criteria
under which explorative research can be conducted in a rigorous and systematic
way. The results of an exploratory investigation carried out in a transparent,
self-reflexive, and honest way can be objective – although partial. In
this process, the use of dialectics offers a fruitful way of approaching reality,
as it points to contradictions as entry points for empirical research.