Decolonial Critical Hermeneutics

Chughtai, Hameed (2023) Decolonial Critical Hermeneutics. In: Handbook of Qualitative Research Methods for Information Systems. Edward Elgar, Cheltenham, pp. 240-257. ISBN 9781802205381

Abstract

This chapter sets out to bring the debate on decoloniality to qualitative information systems research methods. I argue that the dominant views of critical and interpretive IS research are Eurocentric and contribute to maintaining the epistemic hegemony of the West over the rest of the world. Following decolonial scholars such as Anibal Quijano and Walter Mignolo, I argue for developing a set of counter methodological perspectives grounded in decoloniality. A decolonial hermeneutic approach will increase and enhance qualitative IS researchers' participation from diverse non-Western backgrounds. It also encourages scholars to build on theories and knowledge from the Global South, East, and other non-Eurocentric perspectives. This approach allows the researchers interested in the non-Western contexts to engage with local knowledge, histories, and narratives to develop understanding and meanings from a local horizon and benefit the local communities.