Epistemology, methodology and methods. What tools for what kind of feminism? Reflections from Care Studies

Abstract

In this paper we aim to deepen the epistemological aspects and practice of social research from the perspective of gender studies. Starting from the complexity of the research methodology and the diversity of feminist approaches, we will work in clarifying some concepts about what does "feminist research" means and we will attempt to answer some of the issues involved in it. Is there a feminist method? Is it possible to consider a more consistent methodology types with feminism than others? From the research with a gender perspective have raised strong criticism of traditional epistemologies and methodologies, among many other questionable aspects claim served to legitimize or justify situations of subordination, marginalization or exclusion of women in certain fields. Remove sexist and androcentric biases that weigh down knowledge since immemorial time is a main point of feminist research programs, which increasingly focus their attention on the methods by which we obtain the "evidences" on which the various sciences are built.