What is the relationship between ethnography and theory? It is possible that no other question has inspired more strife within qualitative sociology. Entire schools of thought have been assembled in opposition to one another: grounded theory versus the extended case method versus abductive analysis. We are frequently told by the architects, interpreters, and practitioners of these schools that the stakes are massive. As such, we will seriously consider each of these three schools on their own terms and put them in conversation. Among other things, we will consider whether or not our next three books offer reasonable accounts of each other. You should always be on the lookout for straw man arguments. Beware of scarecrows!

At this point, you should be “accessing” a physical site via independent fieldwork, the gig work study, or the courtroom study. While those doing independent fieldwork can of course also do in-depth interviews, archival research, and digital ethnography, participant observation and/or observant participation must be the primary method. You should contact me ASAP to arrange alternative or temporary fieldwork plans if you are not able to access or begin the fieldwork you anticipated in the Part I discussions.