Scope and Limits of the State of the Art: Methodological and Epistemic Reflections

Abstract

Introduction: The state of the art is configured as an essential methodological tool for scientific research, as it enables the identification, organization, and critical interpretation of accumulated knowledge related to a specific problem, discipline, or area. It goes beyond the mere compilation of sources, requiring the analysis of trends, gaps, and approaches. Its value lies in guiding the delimitation of the research problem and strengthening the construction of theoretical and methodological frameworks

Methods: This work was developed under the interpretive paradigm, with a qualitative approach and hermeneutical method. The reflection was based on a documentary review of specialized literature, prioritizing recent and relevant sources. Critical analysis made it possible to integrate theoretical and methodological contributions, recognizing the scope and limits of the state of the art in research.

Resultados y Conclusions: The analysis revealed that the state of the art simultaneously constitutes an exercise in documentary systematization and critical interpretation. Its scope is expressed in the ability to integrate knowledge, identify gaps, guide objectives, and generate new research questions. However, it faces limitations related to unequal access to sources, the temporality of documents, and interpretive subjectivity. It is concluded that its value lies in offering an integrative vision of the field, while acknowledging historical, social, and methodological constraints.