Narratives to Multiple Narratives in Social Sciences: Concept, Methodology, and Case Studies for Making Senses of the World and Creating Various Voices to be Heard

Abstract

        This article reviews the concept of narratives as a conceptual framework and methodology and relates it to multiple narratives in social sciences, including studies of varying patterns of languages and communication as the illustration of the real world. Narratives encompass a multitude of meanings drawn from narrative practices, which consist of various elements and scopes. The diversity of narratives also stems from different methods of analysis, particularly the interpretations offered by individuals with varying backgrounds and worldviews. Consequently, each narrative possesses the potential to articulate, contest, and negotiate with one another. Furthermore, this article reviews some case studies that embrace multiple narratives in critiquing grand narratives for making all voices to be heard. Four aspects of multiple narratives are presented as follows: (1) narratives from below, (2) narratives through materials with newly given meanings, (3) multiple narratives for getting rid of otherness, and (4) narratives extracted from different experiences and temporalities. These aspects of multiple narratives emphasize people’s increasing negotiation powers in social relationships and provide space for marginalized groups to assert their rights and voice their desires. The multiple narratives have therefore been used and defined under different terms such as “narrative from below”, “micro narrative”, or “alternative narrative”. These narratives are meant to challenge mainstream narratives or those imposed from above, for example, nationalism, colonialism, as well as ideologies that perpetuate marginalization.