The epistemological and ontological assumptions of this philosophical orientation.

Philosophical Orientation: Post-Positivist Epistemological Assumptions:

• Falsifiability: Knowledge is provisional and can be revised or rejected based on new evidence.
• Critical realism: While reality exists independently of our perception, our understanding of it is influenced by our theories and methods.
• Interconnectedness: Knowledge is socially constructed and influenced by various factors, such as power relations and cultural context.

Ontological Assumptions:

• Reality is complex and multifaceted: There is no single, objective reality that can be fully understood.
• Reality is socially constructed: Our understanding of reality is shaped by our social, cultural, and historical contexts.
• Causality is complex: Causal relationships are not always simple or linear, and multiple factors can influence outcomes.

Rationale for Post-Positivism: I believe that a post-positivist worldview provides a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the world. It acknowledges the limitations of human knowledge and recognizes the importance of considering multiple perspectives and interpretations. Additionally, it emphasizes the interconnectedness of social and cultural factors, which is crucial for understanding complex phenomena.  

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