Patrick Thomsen’s told a story about the importance of incorporating non-western knowledge and methodologies in research. By recognising the Western influence on his view of sexuality, Thomsen broadened his perspective, making his research more relevant to the context he was exploring.
This encouraged me to consider my own experiences in dealing with views that conflict with mine. For example, as a peer telephone counsellor during high school, I developed an understanding that the best way of communicating with someone in distress is to listen, let them rant, and offer support and empathy.
The perspective I grew up with, and what many people close to me believe in is a more pragmatic, solution-seeking approach that values thinking over feeling first. As I felt my approach was better, this often led to misunderstandings and arguments that left both parties feeling worse off than before.
Thomsen’s story has encouraged me not just to form my own opinions but also to accept that not everyone agrees with them.
In research, there can be multiple answers to a question with the possibility that they are both right but are grounded in different contexts, cultures, and ways of understanding.
However, it is necessary to critically evaluate perspectives and potentially disagree with the positions of others.
Thomsen was able to apply Talanoa methodology to a new context. This highlights an overarching theme in this course that combining perspectives to find new solutions is critical in research.
