ABSTRACT
Methodological imperialism is the understanding that some methods or methodologies are considered to be "proper" science, while others is considered to be less scientific or even not scientific at all. This chapter attempts to understand its nature and origins and some of the language-based mechanisms by which it is maintained. An advantage of a critical realist approach is that such a conflict does not occur since its layered version of ontology creates a unique space for each discipline, whilst acknowledging that different methods and methodologies will be appropriate for each layer. The chapter explores the ways in which power in representation and power behind representation result in fertile ground for disciplinary imperialism. It allows scientists whose subject matter is situated in non-empirical reality to take their place as equals at the table alongside those scientists whose subject matter is empirical.
