Critical Social Inquiry and the Politics of Post-truth: A Matter of Trust

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 9:45 am
  In Poster Session: Inquiry in the Social Contexts of Education

Abstract

This paper critically examines the politics of validity in social science research within the framework of a post-truth context. Grounded in a critical qualitative research perspective, we interrogate the traditional notions of validity and explore alternative criteria that center power dynamics, social justice, and emancipation. We argue that in a post-truth era, validity cannot be divorced from the wider sociopolitical landscape in which research is situated. We emphasize the importance of reflexivity, critical dialogue, and the inclusion of marginalized voices in challenging and transforming oppressive systems and structures. This paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on validity in qualitative research, offering insights and practical recommendations for researchers committed to advancing social justice and equity in a post-truth world.

Authors

• Davis Clement, Eastern Michigan University

• Michelle D. Young, University of California - Berkeley