Week 8:2 Ethnographers

Research can be done by either direct observation or indirect observation. Ethnographers can choose either way to conduct research but they may be faced with certain moral complications. In order to fit in and observe without being detected an ethnographer may have to behave in a manner not acceptable to their customs. If the research being conducted in an area that is truly against the ethnographer's morals then he may choose indirect observation. Also to observe a subject without affecting their behavior by observing from a distance can be more successful than direct observation. When using direct observation in ethnographic research the ethnographer has to decide whether they are going to try and blend in or openly be known as an outsider observing the group. When trying to fit into a group and not behave like an outsider there may be situations that cause moral dilemmas. When moral questions arise the ethnographer may resolve the situation by opening up that observation is the purpose of his presence or challenging the behavior as immoral or choose to participate for research purposes. Doubts about how to behave within a group is going to challenge the success of the research. Knowing what your personal limits are and having an idea of who you are, will help provide the guidance it takes to decide the proper behaviors and ways to approach ethnographic research experiments.