Legitimation of scientific representations of the object of study

Abstract

The essay aimed to reflect on the legitimization of scientific representations of the object of study from a qualitative perspective. The main question posed was: What is the reality of the object of study, and how are its representations legitimized? Through a detailed analysis, it was argued that the reality of the object could be seen as a fragmented and possibly biased representation, suggesting that it is essential to adopt a critical approach to these representations. In fact, several strategies for legitimizing scientific representations were presented, such as methodological triangulation, which combines qualitative and quantitative methods, and peer review, which allows for a deeper scrutiny of interpretations. These strategies were aimed at reducing bias and strengthening the validity of the knowledge produced. In the final considerations, the importance of recognizing the provisional nature of knowledge was highlighted, emphasizing that it is always tentative and subject to revision, which is essential for scientific progress. It was concluded that the constant search for ways to legitimize the object of study is crucial for advancing research, advocating for a critical attitude that fosters rigorous and effective analysis in all fields of knowledge.