ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to illustrate the close relationship between Goodson’s life and work. It is presented as a journey, through his life, the world and different fields of education. Attention is paid to his roots and class, and his persistent loyalty to his ‘tribe’. Insights developed early in life raise questions of power, social control, justice and morality. The personal, the political and the pedagogical go together. The relationship between school curriculum and local knowledge is explored and challenged. Goodson’s approach to language and textual aspects is discussed. The chapter tries to show the complexity of Goodson’s narrative approach: a story can both liberate and limit. Attention is paid to Goodson’s concern with the changing of values in a changing world.
