The Evaluation of Qualitative Research: A Reflection From a Justice Perspective

Due to the diversity of research options, as well as the lack of consensus regarding criteria for research quality, an evaluative process is needed that can take into account the different characteristics of diverse research options and their specific contributions. Therefore, it is essential to carry out the evaluation of qualitative research in a pluralistic setting. The author's observation is that research needs to be understood as a political concern within the domain of justice. This means that it is necessary to move forward with the construction of a more democratic setting so that differences between scientists and scientific communities can be dealt with, and the right of researchers to promote and develop different paradigms and research options can therefore be guaranteed, as well as facilitating dialogue and mutual learning between researchers and different paradigms. Its construction will imply discussions, tensions, and agreements that go beyond the epistemological and theoretical sphere into a political and moral one.