Research Philosophy

This chapter covers the fundamentals of research philosophy in general and as applied to socio-technical grounded theory (STGT) studies. First, it addresses why being aware of research philosophy and its fundamental building blocks is important. Next, it presents simple definitions and descriptions of these fundamental philosophical concepts such as reasoning, which can be inductive, deductive, and abductive, and how each is manifested in STGT’s different steps and procedures. After this, it covers ontology, and how STGT expands ontology. Then it covers epistemology, and how STGT offers a range of epistemological options. Finally, the chapter moves into discussing prominent research paradigms and their application in STGT studies. This includes a discussion of how mismatched research paradigms of reviewers and the study can lead to harsh and unfair reviewing.