The Search for Paradigms as a Hindrance to Understanding

Book •
Albert Hirschman's "The Search for Paradigms as a Hindrance to Understanding" is a critical essay that challenges the dominance of paradigm-driven research in the social sciences.

Hirschman argues that the search for overarching paradigms can hinder our ability to understand complex social phenomena.

He emphasizes the importance of open-ended inquiry and the value of diverse perspectives in social science research.

The essay advocates for a more nuanced and context-sensitive approach to understanding social issues, rejecting the limitations of rigid theoretical frameworks.

Hirschman's work continues to influence social science methodology, encouraging scholars to embrace intellectual flexibility and avoid the pitfalls of dogmatic adherence to theoretical paradigms.

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Mentioned by Mona El Ghobashy as a source of inspiration for her approach to writing the book.
Mona El-Ghobashy, "Bread and Freedom: Egypt's Revolutionary Situation" (Stanford UP, 2021)

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