As a pre-reading task prior to Workshop 4 we looked at citation. Citation and academic research is an area I have struggled with during my PgCert and this task and workshop was very eye opening for me, allowing me to see citations in a new light. Citations are more than just a tool to back up arguments—they reflect the voices we choose to amplify. While it’s common to use citations as stand-alone quotes to strengthen our writing, it’s essential to consider who we are citing, not just what they say.
The people we cite occupy specific positionalities in the world, shaped by their identities, privileges, and lived experiences. This positionality influences their perspectives and the academic discourse they contribute to. For instance, scholar Sarah Ahmed deliberately avoids citing white men in her research, arguing that their voices already dominate academic spaces. Instead, she highlights the work of underrepresented academics to challenge institutionalised norms and diversify the academic conversation. While controversial, her approach underscores a critical point: citation practices can either reinforce or disrupt systemic inequalities in knowledge production.
This idea has prompted me to reflect on my own citation practices. Have I inadvertently overlooked marginalised voices in my work? Could I have been more intentional in seeking out diverse perspectives? By thinking about the positionalities of my references, I can better understand which voices I have amplified—and which I might have excluded.
Knowledge production is deeply entwined with power dynamics. Historically, white male authors have held disproportionate influence in shaping the academic landscape. By examining these dynamics and making deliberate choices about who we cite, we can contribute to a more inclusive and equitable body of knowledge. Going forward I will have far more intention when citing certain people.