Limitations of this Research

Every research project carries inherent limitations. This research has a few; stemming from the theoretical framework as well as the position of the research as a foreign body outside of the studied subject.

TFT, while comprehensive in its adherence to dissolution of essentialism, TFT can actually prove problematic in attempts to establish a system of change. TFT, as it calls for the recognition of differences, makes it difficult to collaborate among scholars.

Essentialism must be overcome in order to seek the greater good of collaboration of women across borders, socioeconomic status, color, and religion. As stated by Uma Narayan in Decentering the Center, "although there may be no essential quality- biological, social or cultural- that women share, one that binds them together is common cause.”

Additionally, collaboration between scholars, often western, and local activists can be complicated. As women are not to be culturally or gender essentialized, it is often hard for them to find common ground on which to stand to establish coalitions which could reform systems of injustice. A western scholar, studying the systems of oppression with Maquilas under TFT may find it difficult to establish collaboration with local Mexican women, although they ultimately seek the same goal. Often, local activists see outsiders, again typically westerns (read: American, English, middle class), as arriving with ulterior motives. As addressed in much criticism of TFT scholars, when conducting research, who are you truly doing it for? The “Third World” woman (insert stereotypes already discussed including sexualized, ignorant, backwards, need to be saved), or truly for women?