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Advancing a pragmatist epistemology in organisational research

Diane Ruwhiu (Department of Management, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand)
Malcolm Cone (Department of Management, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand)

Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management

ISSN: 1746-5648

Article publication date: 24 August 2010

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Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the utility of a pragmatist epistemology as a viable methodological avenue for addressing the challenges associated with the normative models of science that dominate organisational management. At the same time, theorisation of a paradigm grounded in a pragmatic epistemology is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper seeks to explore the different assumptions guiding a pragmatist epistemology, based on the development of an alternative philosophic framework, such as an indigenous paradigm that draws its logic from a Māori worldview. In doing so, it counters the ideological tension created by the disjunction of applying an epistemological perspective that aligns with what we conceptualise as a mainstream Western view of knowledge creation and maintaining the integrity of taking an indigenous worldview.

Findings

In the paper, we argue that kaupapa Māori research, as an indigenous paradigm draws from a pragmatist epistemology, providing a platform for a culturally attuned response to mainstream organisational research.

Originality/value

The paper is of use to qualitative researchers, in and beyond indigenous contexts, as it grounded in a methodological approach that draws from a pragmatic epistemology offering insightful, more richly contextualised research avenues in organisation and management.

Keywords

Citation

Ruwhiu, D. and Cone, M. (2010), "Advancing a pragmatist epistemology in organisational research", Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management, Vol. 5 No. 2, pp. 108-126. https://doi.org/10.1108/17465641011068884

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2010, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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