ABSTRACT
Chapter 4 continues the exploration of nursing, now in terms of the kinds of knowledge that nurses require and what they entail. While supporting the importance of evidence-based knowledge, and the central role of scientific knowledge, this chapter focuses on the idea of mixed knowledges and the central role of interpretation in nursing practice. Scientific knowledge is essential for nursing and has to be painstakingly learned, as do technical skills. Relational aspects of nursing are elements of social life that are not learned as such, but can be refined through reflection. The idea there are “multiple realities” is rejected in favour of a basic materialism which is nonetheless subject to endless interpretation as part of human life. Thinkers who inform mixed ways of thinking are introduced, including Mary Midgely, Michel Serres, and Hans Georg Gadamer. Interpretation in nursing practice is discussed using examples from practice, and the therapeutic approach of motivational interviewing. In the conclusion, the importance of humanities for nursing is restated, in relation to scientific knowledge, and in helping to make meaningful distinctions between different kinds of knowledge.
