Methodologies

/ˌmɛθədˈɑlədʒiz/ noun

Definition

plural of methodology; systems of methods used in particular activities

Etymology

From Greek 'methodos' (method) + 'logos' (study), literally 'the study of methods'

Kelly Says

Methodology is literally 'the study of methods' - it's like having a method for your methods, which sounds very meta but is actually quite practical!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Scientific methodologies codified in early modern Western science excluded women from formal participation, establishing male-as-default researcher identity. Feminist epistemology (1980s+) revealed how methodology design itself can embed gendered assumptions about objectivity, authority, and what counts as valid knowledge.

Inclusive Usage

When establishing methodologies, explicitly include diverse perspectives in design; acknowledge positionality and potential blind spots rather than claiming false neutrality.

Inclusive Alternatives

["approaches","frameworks","processes"]

Empowerment Note

Women scientists and epistemologists (Harding, Longino, Keller) demonstrated that including women's perspectives strengthens methodology rigor by surfacing hidden assumptions.

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