Phenomenology as a Method of Psychological Inquiry: Developing Freedom From Suppositions

Abstract

Edmund Husserl developed phenomenology as a method to enrich a naturalistic-driven scientific inquiry by including the person of the researcher. Developing freedom from suppositions, or the practice of epoché, is a core concept in phenomenological research. This qualitative inquiry into the work of Husserl and Moustakas situates their notions of epoché in the Theravada tradition of mindfulness. Furthermore, this exploration includes a review of literature related to the clinician’s presence with the client, parallel to the researcher’s presence with a phenomenon. Author comes to the conclusion that an inner practice of cultivation of wisdom driven by an attitude of openness, curiosity and acceptance is an integral part of phenomenological method of psychological inquiry. The core of this practice can be summarized as alteration of consciousness and psychological awareness of self, supported by intentionality, integrity, values, and intuition; and evoking a sense of relatedness, immediacy and depth, and feeling of joy.