From denied dependence to an acknowledged dependence : making caring research relationships a possibility

The humanities and social science disciplines which follow the scientific method of knowledge production, uphold the virtues of objectivity as important in the search for the "Really Real". This search for the "Really Real" is meant to produce knowledge with universal applicability. Universality glosses over difference. The differentiated forms of oppression are inappropriately addressed by universal prescription. The lived experiences of individuals, both the knower and the known, are perceived as detrimental to the process of knowledge production. This process that is governed by dualistic laws of thought eliminates deviations to the perceived "rational knower" and what can be "known". This hyper-separation, detachment and hierarchy between the knower and the know is considered to be important for maintaining objectivity in knowledge.