Reflexivity
Reflexivity is the idea that our thoughts, actions, and beliefs can influence the world around us, and in turn, the world can shape our thoughts and actions. For example, when a scientist conducts research, their personal biases and experiences can affect how they interpret data. This creates a loop where both the researcher and the research are interconnected.
In social sciences, reflexivity encourages researchers to reflect on their own role in the study. By acknowledging their influence, they can better understand how their perspectives might affect the outcomes. This practice helps ensure that findings are more reliable and representative of the broader context.