This article explores the notion of ‘structured pluralism’ drawing on a recent empirical body of literature
in which multiple research, or ‘Q-Squared’, approaches to causal analysis of poverty analysis have been
used in the Global South. It maintains that understanding linguistic differences between schools of
thought is quite integral to methodologically-aware critique and to improved methodological practice.
The various strands in the Q2 literature together provide a case for methodological pluralism based on
claims that knowledge is partial, empirical adjudication is imperfect, the world is complex and combining
multiple research approaches adds value. The goals of understanding and explanation are best served if
research questions dictate choice of methodological approach rather than the other way around.