Introduction
There are several paradigms through which people see the world and which influence how they answer emerging questions. Among the main paradigms are positivism, post-positivism, constructivism, and pragmatism, each of which has unique characteristics. Therefore, after studying each of them, I can say that I am more inclined to the positivist point of view, which is based on the power of methodical proof of knowledge.
Personal Alignment with a Philosophical Worldview
First, it is worth noting that each person has unique experiences and perceptions shaping their beliefs about the world. Research indicates that paradigms “provide lenses through which the world is viewed” (Kankam, 2019, p. 91). These representations become the primary mechanism that shapes how they find answers and solutions to problems.
Positivism best reflects how I view problems in the world, as I hold the opinion that they can be investigated using scientific observation, measurement, and experiment. Alharahsheh and Pius (2020) stated that “positivism relates to the importance of what is given, with a stricter focus to consider pure data and facts without being influenced by the interpretation of bias of human” (p. 41). Thus, when researching any information, it is also necessary to consider the fact that there is no general concept of truth since it is strongly subject to human prejudices and judgments. It follows from this fact that what is observable and measurable can be considered truthful.
Integrating Worldview with Research Methodology
When determining approaches to conducting research, understanding the connection between philosophical worldview and research methodology provides me with significant assistance. While adhering to the paradigm of positivism, it can be noted that the choice in scientific work may fall on various methods that will provide an opportunity to obtain results through observation, measurement, or experiment (McCartan & Robson, 2016). However, it is worth noting that I do not deny the possibility of observing some aspects of other paradigms, which can positively contribute to the acquisition of valuable and essential information.
Philosophical Worldviews and the Christian Perspective
The comparison of positivism as a philosophical worldview is of particular importance with that of a Christian worldview. As already mentioned, this approach focuses on empirical evidence and scientific methods as the most reliable sources of knowledge.
Christianity, in turn, is based on the belief that God created everything around people; that is, it does not require proof. Faith and reason are the main sources of knowledge within the confines of religion (Keller, 2014). As noted in Proverbs 3:5-6, “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (New International Version Bible, 2023). Therefore, positivism is very different from the Christian worldview, but it is worth noting that it is effective in conducting research.
Conclusion
This problem area shows that not all philosophical worldviews appear congruent with a Christian worldview. Positivism is based on the proof of a phenomenon through experiments or measurements. At the same time, Christianity is based on faith and reason, which do not fully align with this paradigm. Furthermore, positivism is based on the idea that there is no transcendent reality when religion talks about the existence of God. However, it is possible to cite the fact that the Christian faith emphasizes the importance of these aspects as sources of knowledge, in addition to reason and empirical evidence.
References
Alharahsheh, H. H., & Pius, A. (2020). A review of key paradigms: Positivism vs interpretivism. Global Academic Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 2(3), 39-43. Web.
Kankam, P. K. (2019). The use of paradigms in information research. Library & Information Science Research, 41(2), 85-92. Web.
Keller, T. (2014). Every good endeavor: Connecting your work to God’s work. Penguin Books.
McCartan, K. & Robson, C. (2016). Real-world research (4th ed.). Wiley.
New International Version Bible. (2023). YouVersion. Web.