Towards an epistemology of participatory research

Abstract

In this article, Dr. Anil Chaudhary examines the epistemological foundations of participatory research, arguing that its roots lie in the age-old traditions of knowledge production that have existed alongside the elite-controlled, formal knowledge frameworks throughout history. Drawing upon historical analysis, he demonstrates how control over knowledge production and utilisation has been an effective instrument of rule in all stratified societies. He divides them into three categories: structural control, linguistic control, and thematic control. The article thus talks about the parallel existence of two contrasting modes of knowledge production- the dominant mode and the popular mode. It presents participatory research as an attempt to refine the popular mode of knowledge in the contemporary context. Dr Chaudhary concludes the paper by suggesting some challenges for the future of participatory research.