Qualitative Ranting?

Abstract

In this article, I first sketch an account of various English radicals and ranters before concentrating on an American example, Johnny Saldaña’s rant on “ Blue-Collar Qualitative Research.” Then, my main interest lies in discussing whether Saldaña’s rant may appropriately be regarded as “qualitative.” I structure the article by using a few theatrical terms—overture, beginners, main act, reprise, and finale—mainly to suggest that, despite his protests to the contrary, what Saldaña is really (one of his favorite words!) offering is a performance. Indeed, it would be a performance I would really wish to hear and see.