Pluralist ontology: comments on Llewellyn (2007)
Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management
ISSN: 1176-6093
Article publication date: 7 March 2008
Abstract
Purpose
The aim is to provide a commentary on “Case studies and differentiated realities”, a paper by Sue Llewellyn, published in Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Vol. 4 No. 1, 2007.
Design/methodology/approach
Examines the ontological statements in Llewellyn's paper and analyses her criticisms of the “single reality” ontology of social constructivism.
Findings
Critically examines Llewellyn's differentiated worlds by looking at their ontological distinctiveness. Proposes that there are two “dimensions” to an ontological proposition, and that it is necessary to look at both in order to provide a more complete ontological statement. Discusses the extent to which Llewellyn's notion of a “single reality” reflects the ontological position of social constructivism and positivism.
Originality/value
Expands Llewellyn's idea of pluralism in an even broader sphere where “single” and “plural” co‐exist.
Keywords
Citation
Scapens, R.W. and Yang, C. (2008), "Pluralist ontology: comments on Llewellyn (2007)", Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, Vol. 5 No. 1, pp. 15-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/11766090810856741
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2008, Emerald Group Publishing Limited