postpositivist

Postpositivism is a research paradigm that emerged as a critique of classical positivism in the sciences and social sciences. It maintains that an external, objective reality exists, but knowledge of that reality is inherently imperfect and provisional. Observations are theory-laden, instrumentation is fallible, and researchers’ assumptions and values can influence inquiry. As a result, scientific claims are viewed as probabilistic and continually open to revision rather than certain truths.

Key principles include fallibilism, methodological pluralism, and a commitment to rigorous inquiry while acknowledging limits. Postpositivists favor strategies such as triangulation, replication, and the use of multiple methods to reduce bias and increase the credibility of findings. They emphasize measurement quality, transparency in procedures, and ongoing critical evaluation of assumptions. The aim is to approach robust explanations that withstand scrutiny, rather than to prove absolute truths.

In practice, postpositivist research often combines quantitative and qualitative approaches (mixed methods) to build converging evidence. Researchers seek to design studies that test and refine theories, recognizing that contexts and variables may influence results. This stance sits between positivism and constructivist or interpretive approaches: it retains a commitment to systematic investigation and empirical evidence while accepting imperfect knowledge and the role of theoretical framing.

Critics argue that postpositivism can be vague about criteria for truth and may appear to hedge too much. Nevertheless, it remains influential in many disciplines, guiding rigorous, transparent, and pluralistic inquiry.