Extending Knowledge, Improving Practice and Refining Values: Research Informed by the Concept of Phronesis

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter explores how the concept of phronesis (practical wisdom) promotes research that goes beyond the three traditional research goals—exploration, description and explanation—and aims at the improvement of practice, refinement of values and production of knowledge. When applied to research activity, the concept of practical wisdom opens up possibilities of realising co-development of theoretical knowledge, reflection over values and improvement of practice at the same time, constituting a type of values work. This chapter addresses how such research on values can be undertaken within organisations, with a special focus on reflection in groups. It also presents an example of a research study informed by phronesis.