Transrational Methods of Peace Research: The Researcher as (Re)source

Abstract

This chapter takes one step towards conceptualizing a transrational peace research methodology through the lens of the researcher. It commences from the assumption that positivist, modern research tries to negate the influence of the researcher on the research topic and is guided by ideals of objectivity and neutrality, postmodern research seeks to problematize the researcher by contextualizing her position in order to make visible unexamined biases and assumptions. In postmodern manner, it is assumed that any research conducted in the field of Peace Studies cannot be separated from the researcher’s particular perspective that frames and shapes the research process. This chapter then complements the postmodern critical stance by assuming in humanistic fashion hat the researcher is both source for and resource during the research process. The text so (1) gives a very brief overview on modern and postmodern research methodologies as they are relevant for Peace Studies. It (2) renders the ontological and anthropological basis for a transrational peace research that takes the researcher as starting point, (3) elaborates the epistemological consequences of such a view and (4) briefly addresses the ethical aspects that are implicit in this transrational shift. Turning to the researcher as (re)source (5) five systemically interrelated forms of knowing are identified. The question of (6) how to possibly structure research findings is addressed. The chapter concludes with (7) a general remark about the transdisciplinary nature of such (transrational) peace research.