Abstract

DIAZ CORDOVA, Diego Martín. Qualitative methods and food anthropology. Diaeta [online]. 2012, vol.30, n.141, pp.25-36. ISSN 1852-7337.

This paper reviews some of the qualitative methods used in food anthropology. We reflect on the epistemological and methodological implications of these methods and their triangulation with quantitative information. The anthropological tradition in the use of qualitative methods is underlined, highlighting advantages and estimating limitations. This raises the need for multiple methodologies to account for the complexity of the food factor. We also discuss ways of analyzing qualitative data by using specialized software. In relation to the implementation of such methods we reflect upon the differences with the quantitative methods, especially in terms of possibilities of inference and sampling. This paper focuses basically on the description of semi-structured interviews and participant observation, leaving out other kinds of qualitative methods. It points out how important understanding and implementing this type of methodology is in the case of researchers that study food issues, while focusing on the practices and representations of individuals or households regarding food consumption.

Keywords : Qualitative methods; Participant observation; Semistructured interviews; Food anthropology.

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