Reconsidering reflexivity: introducing the case for intellectual entrepreneurship.
In this article, the author reconsiders reflexivity and attempts to examine some unresolved issues by drawing particular attention to the relationship between reflexivity and certain related phenomena/processes: the researcher's a priori knowledge, values, beliefs; empathy within qualitative research; the presence and influence of the researcher's tacit knowledge, and May's "magic" in method. Given the limitations of some reflexive activity identified in this article, the author introduces the case for greater intellectual entrepreneurship within the context of qualitative research. He suggests that excessive emphasis on reflexive activity might inhibit intellectual entrepreneurship. Wherein intellectual entrepreneurship implies a conscious and deliberate attempt on the part of academics to explore the world of ideas boldly; to take more risks in theory development and to move away from being timid researchers.
Cutcliffe
John R
JR
University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, British Columbia, V2N 4Z9, Canada. dr.johnr@shaw.ca
D001364:Awareness; D002170:Canada; D004645:Empathy; D016520:Entrepreneurship; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012108:Research Personnel / Q000523:psychology*; D035844:Researcher-Subject Relations; D012941:Social Responsibility; D014167:Transference, Psychology