Positionality statements in science

Open Res Eur. 2024 Jun 21:4:62. doi: 10.12688/openreseurope.17058.2. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

The goal of this essay is to clarify positionality as an epistemological scientific concept and address related misunderstandings to help researchers assess whether statements thereof contribute to their work. Positionality statements can be useful for various research designs across scientific fields, when they are used knowingly.

Keywords: Bias. Epistemology; Interdisciplinary; Knowledge; Methodology; Objectivity; Philosophy of Science; Subjectivity.

Grants and funding

Co-funded by the European Union (ERC;, ORE, 101042052). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Research Council. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.