Ethnographer: meaning, definitions and examples
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ethnographer
[ ΙΞΈΛnΙΙ‘rΙfΙ ]
social science
An ethnographer is a researcher who studies cultures and communities through direct observation and participation. They gather detailed insights into the practices, beliefs, and behaviors of individuals within a specific group or society, often through fieldwork.
Synonyms
cultural anthropologist, fieldworker, researcher
Examples of usage
- The ethnographer spent a year living with the tribe.
- Her research as an ethnographer provided valuable insights into urban communities.
- Ethnographers often record interviews as part of their methodology.
Etymology
The term 'ethnographer' is derived from the word 'ethnography,' which comes from the Greek words 'ethnos,' meaning 'people,' and 'grapho,' meaning 'to write.' The term began to take shape in the early 19th century as scholars sought to systematically study and describe the cultures and social practices of various populations around the world. Ethnography has its roots in anthropology, where early anthropologists established methods for observing and documenting human behaviors in their natural settings. Over the years, this discipline has evolved, incorporating various methodologies and theoretical frameworks, and has become an essential tool for understanding the diversity of human societies.