Visible Interdependencies: Tools for Epistemic Justice in Research Designs

What is the role of a research design in reproducing or overcoming epistemic injustices? As researchers attempt to make sense of processes on the ground, their interpretations are inevitably shaped by epistemological and ontological traditions embedded in their research designs. In this article, we identify the aspects of research designs that allow to recognize or conversely overlook the vulnerabilities on which the social life of research participants, particularly marginalized groups, depends. To build this argument, we first depart from an understanding of vulnerability as an interdependent human condition which allows us to recognize interdependencies as an integral part of any research project. This perspective permits us to approach vulnerability as contextual, co-constructed, and taking shape within the many social and political interdependencies that govern the daily lives of individuals. Second, we analyse what role research designs play in addressing these interdependencies. Building on the concepts of dominant narratives and epistemic injustice, we argue that based on whether a research design allows for a space to address the interdependencies between marginalized groups and dominant narratives, epistemic injustice is either tackled or reproduced. As a result, we propose facets of a research design one needs to consider in order to prevent epistemic injustices and advance alternative narratives. We illustrate our argument by reviewing existing research on marginalized groups and provide methodological tools to conduct a research sensitive to vulnerability.