TA at the crossroads: Politics of TA from the viewpoint of societal problem solving

Abstract

Currently, the underlying, ever-existing politics of TA are surfacing and challenging TA in its self-understanding as expertise. This article suggests two arguments. First, as the ways of constructing and articulating knowledge for politics are changing, the concept of epistemic regimes offers a new analytical perspective on problem-solving processes and the relevance of the different knowledges involved. These knowledges will be analysed as indicators, which are combining knowledge claims with normative valuations (criteria) and empirical observations (observable). Thus, the inherent politics of knowledge can be interpreted as “indicator politics.” Second, this article argues that the current politics of TA can be reconstructed as a non-reflective use of indicators. Typically, TA only admits in general normative influences, but does not disclose them in detail. With the approach suggested here, the concrete linkages between knowledges and values as well as the limitations of knowledges can be unveiled—offering TA the chance to reflect its use of indicators and therefore its own politics.