400002 SE Ethnographic Methods (2012W)

Compared to other forms of empirical research in the social sciences, ethnography appears as a relatively unstructured style of research and theorising. Ethnographic methods denote a bundle of different approaches (participant observation, forms of interviewing, collecting archive and visual material) and refuse an assignment into one epistemological position. Their distinctive feature is rather a focus on one selected locality (for example a village, an urban quarter or an institution), and a specific social formation respectively (an ethnic group or actors linked through kinship, joint activities, techniques or concepts). With regards to content, ethnographic methods concentrate upon an understanding of local sense making and the construction of meaning in everyday life.
The seminar aims at showing the potential of ethnographic methods with a focus on their contribution to theory building. For this reason, we will read and discuss methodological texts and selected ethnographic studies. Students have the opportunity to present their research and specific interests. Therefore, readings and topics will be determined jointly at the beginning of the term.