From Methodological Skepticism to Credibility: Advances and Debates Around the “Scientificity” of Qualitative Analysis

In this essay we critically analyze the methodological and epistemological assumptions of qualitative data analysis. We develop the analysis taking into account the most popular approaches to qualitative analysis in academia and their theoretical implications, as well as criticisms sustained from neopositivist positions. Our thesis is based on the methodological and epistemological utility of the systematic skeptical approach as a critical and constant questioning of qualitative findings to certify the conclusions of qualitative research. We develop an epistemological-methodological analysis of the systematic skeptical approach and detail its value for the scientific legitimacy of largely qualitative studies, taking into account its relevance for evaluating the quality and validity of qualitative findings. We delve into key issues of qualitative analysis such as validity, reliability and objectivity. We discuss the challenges of demonstrating these qualities in a largely qualitative approach versus a quantitative one. We conclude by highlighting the importance of the systematic skeptical approach and how it is key to granting scientific legitimacy to qualitative data analysis.