Queer Methods and Methodologies: Intersecting Queer Theories and Social Science Research

by Catherine J. Nash

Queer Methods and Methodologies provides the first systematic consideration of the implications of a queer perspective in the pursuit of social scientific research. This volume grapples with key contemporary questions regarding the methodological implications for social science research undertaken from diverse queer perspectives, and explores the limitations and potentials of queer engagements with social science research techniques and methodologies. With contributors based in the UK, USA, Canada, Sweden, New Zealand and Australia, this truly international volume will appeal to anyone pursuing research at the intersections between social scientific research and queer perspectives, as well as those engaging with methodological considerations in social science research more broadly.

Genres: Queer, Queer Studies, Research Methods, Nonfiction

317 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2010

About the author

Catherine J. Nash works as Associate Professor in the Department of Geography, Brock University in Ontarioa, Canada.

Reviews

[Dasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers an array of perspectives on how to do research through a queer lens. This includes confronting the inherent power dynamics and issues when it comes to being a queer scholar or a queer participant in a study. The chapters cover a variety of topics from queer politics to ethnography and collaborative research. A worthwhile read for those in the social sciences or those interested in queer methods.

[Synoeca · Rating 5 out of 5]

full on queer-methodological enlightenment (joepie, inspiratie!)

[Reuben Thomas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I both love and hate queer theory (which feels pretty fitting for the whole ‘surfing binarisms’ nature of it), and this book was exactly the enlightening and frustrating endeavour I expected. There were some chapters where I felt like my very soul was being articulated, and others that I pretty much skimmed because they were boring af. Largely, I found it way too academic, pretentious, and inaccessible, but it did present some really interesting ideas and gave me a host of useful references for my assignments, so while I didn’t exactly *enjoy* it, it undeniably did its job.

[Tara Brabazon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating book, and not what I expected. This is an intriguing exploration of what happens when methodologies are worked through the gauze of queerness. It is an edited collection, but each chapter is well written and argued. I am particularly impressed by the engagement with ethnography and queerness. It appears that this method in is incredibly well suited to the understanding of individuals and communities probing the instability and agitation of non-normative identities.

The challenge to ensure that research subjects - often confronting an array of discriminations - are heard, listened to, understood and respect is the key ethical imperative of this book.

The editors offer a concise, provocative but thoughtful investigation of how the - now mature - queer studies and theories can improve and sharpen our methodological selections and applications.