ABSTRACT
The vast literature that speaks to the foundations of PAR is far from being united. To prevent the exclusion of any variant, supporters usually opt for a ‘big tent’ and ‘flowering of eclectic pluralism’. Module 1 takes some distance from this approach by exploring what lies at the common edges of PAR, going back to the human relations movement and new thinking on science in the twentieth century. In Chapter 1, the authors also make a case for the defining goal of PAR, that is, the integration of the core elements in the acronym: Participation (life in society), Action (experience) and Research (knowledge creation). They point out, however, that the work of integration is easier said than done. Many frameworks reduce participation to people contributing data to the inquiry process. Tangible action is the possible outcome of new learning. And research includes methodical group-based thinking, with no intention to advance general knowledge. Faced with these problems, the authors propose a perspectivist approach, one where a central vision of the unity of P, A and R is sustained but also enhanced through lateral thinking, using ideas and tools that focus on some aspects of PAR but not necessarily their full integration at all times.
