Title: Qualitative research and theory development : mystery as method /
Authors: Alvesson, Mats, 1956-; Kärreman, Dan.
Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd,
Year: 2011
Subjects: Social sciences Research
Abstract: Empirical data is one of the cornerstones of knowledge in the social sciences, and yet the researcher often takes it for granted, reserving his or her imaginative faculties for finding a theory that 'fits the data'. This revealing account of the theory-data relationship calls this faith in data into question and establishes a reflexive framework and vocabulary to explore the creative, political and philosophical elements of data production.
Contents: The use of empirical material for theory development -- The role of constructions and language in empirical research -- Key methodological principles for detecting mysteries -- A methodolgy of sorts for theorizing from empirical material -- Illustrating the development and resolution of mysteries -- Fieldwork techniques and mystery creation -- Research guided or assisted by mystery?