Asking Chatgpt to clarify some critical realism concepts for dissertation project work: a note for housing studies students

Asking Chatgpt to clarify some critical realism concepts for dissertation project work: a note for housing studies students

The following account is my dialogue with Chatgpt (via poe.com) on the concepts clarification with regard to the subject of critical realism.

Introduction and my first question: "I am a part-time Undergraduate Housing Studies student. I am currently learning the profound subject of critical realism, to be employed in my dissertation project. The research theme of my dissertation project is : an assessment of “the various perceptions of the impact of housing affordability on the quality of life” in Hong Kong in 2024 based on the critical realism lens. I understand that it is not feasible to gain an in-depth knowledge of the subject of critical realism in a short period of time. I would like you to clarify the following critical realism concepts (the reference article) to me with reference to my dissertation project topic. The goal is to enable me to employ them reasonably correctly in my dissertation project.

Critical realism concept 1: “theory is an indispensable heuristic tool that guides our understanding and our action”.

Critical realism concept 2: “the complex and context-dependent view of causality.

Critical realism concept 3: “the idea of generative mechanism operating in context”

Critical realism concept 4: “the internal, systemic structure of an entity”

Critical realism concept 5: “Co-creating theories with our research partners create more complete and more realistic theories”

Critical realism concept 6: “Co-creating actions makes for better testing of our truth value”."

The reply from Chatgpt is: "Certainly! Here’s a breakdown of the critical realism concepts you mentioned, tailored to your dissertation theme on housing affordability and quality of life in Hong Kong.

Critical Realism Concept 1: Theory as an Indispensable Heuristic Tool

In critical realism, theory is seen as essential for understanding complex social phenomena. For your dissertation, this means that theoretical frameworks will help you analyze how housing affordability affects quality of life. You might employ theories related to social justice, economic inequality, or urban studies to interpret your data and guide your analysis.

Critical Realism Concept 2: Complex and Context-Dependent View of Causality

Critical realism posits that causality is not linear or simple. In your project, this means recognizing that various factors (e.g., economic policies, social networks, cultural attitudes) interact in complex ways to influence perceptions of housing affordability and quality of life. You would need to explore how these different elements come together in the specific context of Hong Kong.

Critical Realism Concept 3: Generative Mechanism Operating in Context

This concept refers to the underlying mechanisms that produce outcomes in specific contexts. For your research, identify the generative mechanisms at play—such as market dynamics, government regulations, or community resources—that shape the experiences of individuals regarding housing affordability. Understanding these mechanisms will help you explain the variations in quality of life perceptions among different demographics.

Critical Realism Concept 4: Internal, Systemic Structure of an Entity

Every social entity has an internal structure that influences its behavior. In your study, consider how the systemic structures of housing markets, governmental policies, and social institutions in Hong Kong interact and impact the quality of life. This could involve analyzing how institutional practices affect housing prices and consequently the well-being of residents.

Critical Realism Concept 5: Co-Creating Theories with Research Partners

Engaging with stakeholders—such as residents, policymakers, and housing experts—allows for the co-creation of theories that reflect real-world complexities. In your dissertation, consider incorporating interviews or focus groups to gather insights from various perspectives, which can enrich your theoretical framework and make it more relevant to the lived experiences of those affected by housing issues.

Critical Realism Concept 6: Co-Creating Actions for Better Testing of Truth Value

This concept emphasizes that by collaborating with research partners, you can test your theories in practical contexts. For instance, involving community organizations in your research could help you design interventions or surveys that are more aligned with the realities of residents’ experiences. This approach enhances the credibility and applicability of your findings.

Conclusion

By applying these concepts from critical realism to your dissertation, you can develop a nuanced understanding of how housing affordability impacts quality of life in Hong Kong. Each concept will guide your analysis, ensuring that you consider the complexities and context of the issues at hand."

Reference: a collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.