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WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Empowering change: exploring militant and popular research

presenters

    Alexandre da Trindade e Oliveira

    Nationality: Brasil

    Residence: England

    University of Cambridge

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

Keywords:

Militant research; Social transformation; Emancipatory-reflexive approach; Social Movements

Abstract:

This paper, stemming from a recently defended doctoral research, delves into the concept and role of "militant research." Focusing on fields addressing social issues and driving social transformation, it explores the relationship between researchers and their research. The study investigates militant approaches in research, particularly those associated with "popular research," aiming for an emancipatory-reflexive approach that produces knowledge in collaboration "with the world," rather than merely about, in, or for it. Militant research, as discussed by scholars like Shukaitis et al. (2007), is deeply rooted in understanding, experiences, and relationships generated through organizing, serving both as political action and knowledge production. This approach goes beyond traditional academic research, shaping diverse forms of engagement and dynamics contributing to transformative practices. Drawing on Paulo Freire's work as a prime example, it highlights the active engagement with communities, rigorous reflection, and co-creation of knowledge. The presentation emphasizes subversive engagement within academic standards, involving active participation in direct actions and utilizing the researcher's body as a tool. Furthermore, it illustrates emerging practical cases from Brazilian social movements, such as the Landless Workers Movement (MST), demonstrating how these approaches foster pedagogical conscientization, political mobilization, and engagement. The paper proposes a two-part presentation: one focusing on conceptual ideas of militant and popular research, and the other discussing real-life applications. In summary, it seeks to explore the dynamic relationship between researchers and their inquiries, emphasizing the transformative potential of militant research and participatory nature of popular inquiry in addressing social issues and fostering social change.