The fetish of the lens: persistent sexist and ableist metaphor in education research 2 The fetish of the lens: persistent sexist and ableist metaphor in education research The scientific metaphor of the lens remains widely used in qualitative education research, despite critiques of positivism. Drawing on two recently empirical doctoral studies and a subsequent small study informed by institutional ethnography, we propose that the attachment to the lens is a fetish. We argue that this fetish,

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... ident even in purportedly feminist, post positivist and inclusive research, emerges from fascination with masculinist and ableist power predicated on the othering of the feminine, and the differently abled. Recourse to the language of power proves irresistible, if dangerous, for academics. We call for caution in the casual use of the lens and for new linguistic research repertoires that produce reality differently.