Research Methodologies: Positivism vs. Post-Positivism

by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023

Research Methodologies: Positivism vs. Post-Positivism

Every research project has a methodology associated with it. The methodology you choose depends on your area of research and your research question. Generally, researchers rely on two main types of research methodology: positivism and post-positivism.

In this article, we will explore the differences between positivism and post-positivism and how they are used in research projects. We will also look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of using each approach.

What is Positivism?

Positivism (also known as positivist philosophy) is an approach to knowledge that is based on the idea that all knowledge is derived from empirical evidence. Positivism is rooted in the work of French philosopher Auguste Comte in the 19th century, and has since been widely adopted in the social sciences.

At its core, positivism argues that scientific methods should be used to analyze social and political phenomena. It suggests that social phenomena should be studied in the same way we study natural phenomena; by making observations, collecting data, and forming theories that explain the data. In simpler terms, positivism argues that the only way to gain knowledge is by looking at empirical evidence.

What is Post-Positivism?

Post-positivism (also known as post-modernism) is an approach to knowledge that emerged as a reaction to positivism. It is based on the idea that knowledge is socially constructed and that reality is subjective. It argues that scientific methods cannot be used to explain everything, as they are limited in their ability to capture certain aspects of social phenomena. Post-positivism suggests that research methods should include the experience and opinions of those being studied.

Post-positivism has many different interpretations, but it generally focuses on understanding social realities by taking into consideration the people’s personal experiences, perspectives, and opinions. It also suggests that researchers should consider the context in which their research takes place, as this can have an effect on the results.

Positivism vs. Post-Positivism

Positivism and post-positivism have several key differences that are important for researchers to understand.

Table 1: Key differences between positivism and post-positivism

As shown in Table 1, the fundamental difference between positivism and post-positivism is their attitude towards knowledge. Positivism suggests that knowledge can only be gained from empirical evidence, whereas post-positivism suggests that knowledge is socially constructed and reality is subjective.

This difference influences their approach to research. Positivism relies on objective and quantitative data analysis, whereas post-positivism relies on qualitative and subjective analysis. Post-positivism also incorporates the experience and opinions of those being studied, which positivism does not do.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Positivism and Post-Positivism

Both positivism and post-positivism have pros and cons that researchers should consider before deciding which methodology to use.

Advantages of Positivism

• Easy to replicate findings, as research is based on empirical evidence
• Results can be tested objectively
• Can be used to form theories that explain social phenomena

Disadvantages of Positivism

• Limited in its ability to capture certain aspects of social phenomena
• Ignores the personal experiences and perspectives of those being studied
• Results may not be applicable in new contexts

Advantages of Post-Positivism

• Incorporates personal experiences and perspectives of those being studied
• Can account for and explain certain aspects of social phenomena
• Results are applicable in new contexts

Disadvantages of Post-Positivism

• Difficult to replicate findings, as research is based on subjective data
• Results cannot be tested objectively
• Limited in its ability to form theories

Conclusion

Positivism and post-positivism are two of the most popular research methodologies. They have different philosophies and approaches that are important for researchers to understand. Positivism is rooted in the idea that knowledge is derived from empirical evidence, whereas post-positivism suggests that knowledge is socially constructed and reality is subjective.

Each approach has its own advantages and disadvantages, and researchers should consider these carefully before deciding which methodology to use. Ultimately, the choice of methodology depends on your area of research and your research question.