Kritikforschung

Kritikforschung is a term used in German-language scholarship to describe research that critically examines knowledge claims, discourses, and social practices. Its central aim is to reveal normative assumptions, power relations and interests embedded in institutions, technologies, or everyday life, with the goal of understanding consequences and improving situations rather than merely describing them.

The concept is closely linked to strands such as critical theory, science and technology studies (STS) and reflexive sociology. Kritikforschung emphasizes that knowledge production itself is shaped by social context, values and power structures, and it often involves a normative dimension that seeks to illuminate and question prevailing norms and policies.

Methodologically, Kritikforschung employs qualitative and discursive approaches, including discourse analysis, ethnography, interviews, and case studies, frequently combined with participatory or action-oriented methods. A key feature is reflexivity: researchers examine their own assumptions and positions and make their normative commitments explicit. Transparency about methodology and the aims of critique is prioritized to avoid confusing critique with advocacy.

Applications occur across fields such as education, media studies, policy analysis, organizational research, technology assessment and public health. In each area, Kritikforschung analyzes how knowledge and practices are produced, whose interests are served, and what alternatives or improvements might be feasible.

Critics caution that Kritikforschung can introduce bias or relativism if normative commitments overshadow methodological rigor. Proponents argue that its strength lies in making hidden power dynamics visible and in informing more just or effective scientific and social practices. See also: critical theory, science and technology studies, discourse analysis, reflexivity.