ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses a brief presentation of the research technique of participant observation. It examines various proposals as to how the anti-naturalist may specify the notion of method when defending her position. One main motivation for engaging in the methodological naturalism debate has been a concern with the scientific status of the social sciences. The view has consequences for the significance assigned to the methodological naturalism debate. The anti-naturalist may look to the anti-naturalist tradition for help. One important strand of anti-naturalism appeals to the method of empathy or verstehen. Anti-naturalists frequently stress that the study of norms necessitates the use of a distinct method. The research technique of participant observation is employed within a wide range of sciences including anthropology, sociology, history, and cultural studies. The analysis of the study of norms by way of participant observation may, in a very straightforward way, serve as the starting point for a defense of the anti-naturalist thesis.