ABSTRACT
In this chapter I want to chart a philosophical pathway through the issues that are of central focus in my study and that serve as a basis for understanding the methodological and philosophical directions taken in this work. To do this I propose to review the pertinent literature on empowerment, interaction (verbal and nonverbal) and change in a fairly loosely structured way so as to move beyond mechanistic summary to a more dynamic, philosophical consideration of the thematic realm in which the study operates. Empowerment is a term frequently seen in recent articles and research literature. It is used very generically, almost like a motto-a new buzzword that gives a title dignity and importance. As Weissglass (1990) points out, however, this generic dignification also has the effect of concealing or diffusing the concept of empowerment.
