Re-imagining Researcher's Positionality though the Perspective of Epistemic Decolonization

Abstract

This study examines the researcher's positionality through the perspective of epistemic decolonization. One of the key arguments in the epistemic decolonization discourse is decentering the knowledge production process. It calls for critical reviews on the established research methodologies that reinforce the modern Western paradigm of knowledge. This study provides a narrative review of epistemic decolonization, focusing particularly on the researcher's positionality. The review suggests examining the assumed dichotomous relationship between researchers and informants. Reflecting on his past interactions with informants at two field research sites, the author argues that exploring a new approach is essential in order to open up the in-betweenness within those concepts and theories which are based on a binary worldview.