ABSTRACT
The critics' model of science is anchored in the belief that there is in an empirical world that is obdurate and talks back to investigators. One version of the back story—the story behind the critics—is offered by Hammersely, who argues that there was a demand by neoliberal governments that research be relevant, evidence-based, and accountable to decision makers. Paradigms are beginning to intermingle, for example, participatory action theory and postmodernism, critical theory and critical pedagogy, critical race theory, and performance studies. Paradigm proponents are informing and influencing one another, exposing differences, confluences, and controversies. Students need to be taught the languages and critical interpretive skills connected to paradigms, ethics, politics, writing, and performance. The three main interpretive communities (post-structural, mixed methods, science-based research) must learn how to cooperate and work with one another. This is so because paradigm dominance involves control over faculty appointments and tenure.
