Latour's Discernment Tools in Action

Exploring and Solving Complex Social Problems Through Participatory Methods

Bibliographic Data

ID2411798
AuthorsSebastien Keiff (0000-0001-6169-9335, Fellow researcher, ENAP, Canada)
Year2024
Volume23
Publication date2024-01-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Qualitative Methods (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1609-4069 • E-ISSN: 1609-4069
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/16094069241286844
OpenAlexW4402588827
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited98

This article explores the practical application of Bruno Latour's 'tools of discernment,' designed to facilitate open collective inquiry without preconceived outcomes. These tools aim to enhance understanding of complex social phenomena, often called 'wicked problems,' by encouraging participants to self-describe their experiences and perspectives. This approach allows for individual expression, constructing collective narratives, and pursuing societal solutions. In Bordeaux, research focused on young people's engagement and aspirations. Researchers employed discernment tools alongside a non-participatory observational approach, meticulously documenting interactions and discussions. The abductive process enabled a real-time understanding of young participants' social dynamics and concerns, highlighting essential themes such as the multifunctionality of public spaces and the impact of digital technology on social relations. In Montreal, the study addressed systemic racism and discrimination using discernment tools. Written contributions were analyzed to identify recurring themes and underlying dynamics. This process ensured participants' voices were accurately represented, resulting in 38 recommendations for institutional recognition and action against systemic racism. The deployment of discernment tools in both cities demonstrated their effectiveness in capturing individual experiences and fostering collective understanding while addressing complex societal challenges. However, challenges such as participant engagement and interpretive bias require adaptive planning and critical reflection. This article demonstrates the potential of discernment tools in participatory social science research, advocating for inclusive and iterative methodologies to tackle complex societal issues. Additionally, it proposes a deployment protocol to foster constructive dialogue, improve understanding of complex social dynamics, and facilitate the development of workable solutions

Action (physics · Citizen journalism · Cognitive science · Discernment · Epistemology · Management science · Participatory action research · Sociology · World Wide Web · Anthropology · Community Health and Development · Computer Science · Engineering · Evaluation and Performance Assessment · Psychology · Social Science and Policy Research · Philosophy

Tools

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