Standpoint theory

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Standpoint theory is a postmodern method for analyzing inter-subjective discourses. It arose amongst feminist theorists, such as Dorothy Smith, Nancy Hartsock, Donna Haraway, Sandra Harding, and Patricia Hill Collins.

According to this approach:

  • A standpoint is a place from which human beings view the world.
  • A standpoint influences how the people adopting it socially construct the world.
  • Social group membership affects people's standpoints.
  • The inequalities of different social groups create differences in their standpoints.
  • All standpoints are partial; so (for example) Standpoint feminism coexists with other standpoints.

Standpoint theory supports what Harding calls strong objectivity, or the notion that the perspectives of marginalized individuals can help to create more objective accounts of the world.

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