Real women: Objectivity versus situatedness in Critical Discourse Studies

This paper discusses the role of objectivity and interpretation within Critical Discourse Studies (CDS), arguing that the recognized and accepted situatedness of scholars has implications that are underplayed – to detrimental effect. Following Latour, and admitting the essential role of interpretation in all science, this paper encourages those working within CDS to engage more explicitly with their own roles as interpreters. Arguing for the importance and benefits of such a shift, the case is made for a re-appreciation of the role of interpretation in the rigorous and systematic analysis of texts. Drawing upon insights from translation, deconstruction, and hermeneutics, and analyzing a recent interview by the feminist, Germaine Greer, and the angry reactions it provoked from within the Trans community, I argue that CDS scholars should embrace the implications that undertaking a socio-political committed analysis brings with it.