AUTONOMY AND CREDIBILITY - VOICE AS METHOD

Although little noticed by practicing theorists, narrative voice influ ences theoretical work. This essay presents a demonstration of voice a s method, concentrating on brief segments of works by Garfinkel and Go ffman. We attend to two methodological themes: how theorists use voice to establish intellectual autonomy, and how the use of voice influenc es credibility with readers. Garfinkel maximizes his autonomy by using narrative techniques that isolate him from his readers, and produce l ittle common context with them as a result. Goffman maintains a contex t for credibility with his readers by using a personal voice, but he u ses this voice to request their indulgence as he follows his autonomou s muse. Goffman's narrative self-indulgence prevents him from fashioni ng a coherent theoretical program for his readers, something Garfinkel 's distant voice enables him to achieve.