Community Research as Empowerment: Feminist Links, Postmodern Interruptions

Alice Kidd is an editor with The New Catalyst editorial collective in
Lillooet, B.C.

Scientific research involves the use of technique within an ethical
framework. The authors of this book, which attempts to balance
traditional research values with feminist research for social action,
see empowerment as a primary goal of their studies and power dynamics as
a crucial factor in determining the validity of research.

Research involves critical analysis and responsible use of power. How
do you maintain scientific validity when the subject matter of research
includes the researcher and the ultimate publication of findings? How do
you study power and use it wisely at the same time? Ristock and Pennell
apply a technique of creative tension. On the one hand, they value the
continuity of feminist links between researcher and community of study,
between research and social action; on the other hand, they embrace the
discontinuity revealed by postmodern insights that challenge traditional
structures and processes. By sharing some of their projects, the authors
provide a research option that supports social change without
maintaining outdated power dynamics.

The technical discussions in this book are sometimes difficult,
although the glossary is helpful. Highly recommended for academic
researchers and community activists.