Description
Book SynopsisOne of anthropology''s leading writers on ethnographic methods, Harry Wolcott discusses the fundamental nature of ethnographic studies. Tracing its development from its disciplinary origins in sociology and anthropology, he points out what is distinctive about ethnography and what it means to conduct research in the ethnographic tradition. In this engaging and thought-provoking book, Wolcott distinguishes ethnography as more than just a set of field methods and practices, separating it from many related qualitative research traditions as ''a way of seeing'' through the lens of culture. For both beginning and experienced ethnographers in a wide range of disciplines, Wolcott''s book will provide important ideas for improving research practice.
Trade ReviewThis second edition draws readers closer to Wolcott’s vision of the interpretive stance that underlies ethnography. In an era when ethnographers may be challenged to articulate how their work contributes to different kinds of knowledge, this book shows the way. -- Peter Demerath, University of Minnesota
This casual yet informed synthesis, written in an egaging style, is what sets Wolcott's book apart from the humdrum of texts that discuss methods formally, often in a staccato, bland, and abstracted tone, usually detatched from application....Wolcott's excursion is a wonderful raft ride through the flows, eddies, and rapids of anthropological experience that is always theoretically informed. * H-Afrarts, December 2008 *
My students are always impressed with Wolcott's engaging writing style, wit, and no nonsense approach to fieldwork. Ethnography: A Way of Seeing highlights the importance of creativity and common sense in doing fieldwork. -- Douglas Foley, The University of Texas at Austin
Table of ContentsChapter 1 Ethnography in the Good Old Days Chapter 2 Where in the World Do You Think You Are Going? Chapter 3 Ethnography as a Way of Looking Chapter 4 Ethnography as a Way of Seeing Chapter 5 Traditional Ethnography and Ethnographic Traditions Chapter 6 Ethnography from Inside Out Chapter 7 Hurried Ethnography for Harried Ethnographers Chapter 8 Ethnography's Many Faces Chapter 9 Does It Matter Whether or nor It's Ethnography? Chapter 10 Ethnography as a Piece of Cake Chapter 11 Writing with Culture Chapter 12 Writing Ethnography Chapter 13 Ethnography Matters: Looking Ahead, Looking Back
