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Exploring Philosophically Driven Research in Nursing: An Exploration of Research Driven by Jamesian Pragmatism

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Nursing research has commonly taken a problem-based approach to research design seeking to ground research endeavour within the phenomena with which nursing is occupied. The aim of this paper is to explore an alternative of using philosophical imperative as a research driver, considering both the appropriateness and implications of this approach for nursing. Jamesian pragmatism, with its emphasis on plural, fluid ontology and evolving knowledge, aligns with nursing and is one philosophical imperative which has much to the profession. The paper offers an exemplar of research into family members' experience of the diminishing drinking of a dying relative, which was undertaken within, and from, a pragmatic imperative. Research driven by philosophical imperative has consequences. The philosophical imperative will likely to be pervasive across the research, influencing research topic, conceptualisation, design, delivery and utilisation, bringing both advantages and constraints.

Source: Nursing Inquiry

DOI: 10.1111/nin.12699

Authors: Annie Pettifer, Sean Hughes

Institutions: University of Birmingham, Lancaster University

Language: English

Topic: Pragmatism in Philosophy and Education

Subfield: Philosophy

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,720

Funder: Coventry University