The Problem of Evidence in SSH Research Evaluation

Abstract

In this paper, I explore questions concerning evidence in SSH research evaluation by examining the different kinds of evidence and by explicating the epistemological assumptions of using non-intersubjective evaluation criteria in research evaluation. I argue that the over-emphasis on the wrong kinds of evidence may lead to erroneous assumptions about people and disciplines which in turn lead to undesirable changes in research practices and knowledge production. I  also argue that some issues in SSH research evaluation are rooted in epistemological assumptions that have led to the use of methodologies deprived of intersubjective understanding and judgements.