What type of data is typically associated with subjective research like ethnographies?

The correct answer is qualitative data. Ethnographies are a hallmark of qualitative research, which focuses on understanding human behavior, cultures, and social phenomena from the perspective of the participants. In this context, qualitative data involves non-numerical information that provides insights into the lived experiences, beliefs, and emotions of individuals within their cultural settings.

Qualitative data is derived from methods such as interviews, participant observation, and field notes, all of which allow researchers to capture the complexity and richness of human life. This type of data enables anthropologists to develop deep, contextualized understandings of societal norms, practices, and meanings, which are crucial for interpreting cultural phenomena.

In contrast, quantitative data, which is numerical and often involves statistical analysis, typically does not capture the nuanced realities that ethnographers seek to explore. Mixed-method data combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches, which can provide a more rounded perspective but does not exclusively pertain to ethnographic studies. Experimental data involves controlled methods and manipulation of variables, aligning more with the natural sciences and less with the immersive, observational nature of ethnography. Thus, the emphasis on qualitative data in ethnographic research underscores the discipline's focus on in-depth understanding of diverse cultures and contexts.