Research Involving Women in the Global South – Reflections on Power Dynamics

Abstract

This chapter is based on experiences from two field studies, conducted in Tanzania and Pakistan, with a focus on women entrepreneurs. When conducting research in the global south, there are several ethical challenges to carefully consider, especially when research involves vulnerable groups of people. The aim of the chapter is to shed light on the complexities of power dynamics and to reflect on how to handle ethical dilemmas that may arise. Stories of women I met during the field work are placed at the centre and used as starting points for reflections on power dynamics. These stories lead to a discussion on whether it is legitimate for (privileged) Westerners to engage in research in the global south. The value of ethnography and auto-ethnography within entrepreneurship research is thereafter discussed in hopes of assisting future studies, where different power structures have to be considered.

Citation

Lindvert, M. (2023), "Research Involving Women in the Global South – Reflections on Power Dynamics", Higgins, D., Brentnall, C., Jones, P. and McGowan, P. (Ed.) Nurturing Modalities of Inquiry in Entrepreneurship Research: Seeing the World Through the Eyes of Those Who Research (Contemporary Issues in Entrepreneurship Research, Vol. 17), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 171-185. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2040-724620230000017011