Philosophical Researchers’ Aims and Processes

Abstract

Abstract This chapter presents the primary aims of philosophical research and the key processes that philosophical researchers may use when developing their arguments. A typical process includes constructing a philosophical problem; building an argument through critique, extension, creation, and/or defining terms; and aiming to guide practice. Philosophical researchers aim to illuminate and investigate individuals’ unconscious beliefs, principles, values, and assumptions in order to imagine what could be. Such action necessitates identifying and describing a problem within present music teaching and learning practices. High-quality philosophical research addresses problems that are sufficiently narrow (focusing on a limited aspect of a single complex topic), realistic (resonating with many music educators’ past and present encounters), and significant (dealing with a pervasive and timely topic). Philosophical researchers might start their problem construction process with the question “What are currently the most pressing problems within the profession?” Philosophical researchers can explain and justify these problems through real or hypothetical narratives as well as texts. Having detailed a problem, philosophical researchers often build their arguments through combinations of critique, extension, and creation. Importantly, philosophical researchers define and clarify terms central to their inquiry. While philosophical researchers aim to guide practice, they typically avoid proposing prescribed solutions.