Critical Reflections: The Study of Religion and the Methodology of True Reflexive Praxis in Puerto Rico

• In Event: 165 - Section on Sociology of Religion Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 15. Social Stratification and the Study of Religion

Abstract

Through a close look at the current debates in the study of religion, as well as, a critical
analysis of my experiences as a researcher in (neo)colonial Puerto Rico, I illustrate the
importance of true reflexive praxis as methodology. I argue that critical scholars focus on praxis
in the field itself to see how knowledge (formed and re-formed) might serve to perpetuate or
challenge forms of oppression and domination. I also share some of the unique methodological
challenges that arose during my own fieldwork in la iglesia ‘Ciudad de Refugio’ in Naguabo,
Puerto Rico. I offer this to show the indispensability of of true dialogue and true praxis for scholarship, for the
researcher in the field, and the people being studied. My hope is that by examining praxis in the
field, scholars can see how they might be contributing to oppressive processes that harm the
people who we hope our work might help.

Author

• Douglas Avella-Castro, University of Washington-Tacoma