Positionality statements have also attracted controversy, being alternatively labeled by detractors as "research segregation", "positional piety", and "loyalty oaths". According to critics, an author may claim moral authority through affinity with subjects, or through a confession of difference of relative privilege. This has given rise to the concern that positionality statements can lead to "positional piety", where researchers are considered more or less credible based on race, gender, or other characteristics. On the other hand, supporters of positionality statements point out that such criticisms often stem from "bad" positionality statements, and instead argue for a comprehensive standard of quality.
Positionality statements have increased in popularity during the 2000s, required not just of researchers, but also students. A challenge has been the phenomenon of "phony positionality", wherein students learn to voice the beliefs expected in positionality statements without actually believing them. This "performative" positionality has been an obstacle to their adoption in the classroom.
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