What is ethnomethodology?

Ethnomethodology: Understanding Social Order Through Everyday Practices

Ethnomethodology is a sociological perspective that focuses on the study of how people make sense of their social world and create order in their everyday lives through routine practices. Coined by sociologist Harold Garfinkel in the mid-20th century, ethnomethodology emphasizes the examination of the methods people use to navigate social interactions and produce shared understandings of reality.

1. Foundational Principles

At its core, ethnomethodology challenges traditional sociological approaches by suggesting that social order is not imposed by institutions or norms but is actively produced by individuals through their everyday activities. This perspective rejects the idea of a predetermined social structure and instead explores how people, through their interactions, continuously construct and maintain a sense of order.

2. Methods of Inquiry

Ethnomethodological research often involves the detailed analysis of social interactions in natural settings. Researchers engage in participant observation, closely examining the methods people employ to achieve a shared understanding of situations. The focus is on uncovering the implicit rules, procedures, and assumptions that guide individuals' actions and contribute to the organization of social order.

3. Breaching Experiments

One distinctive feature of ethnomethodology is the use of "breaching experiments," where researchers intentionally violate social norms or expectations to observe how individuals react and attempt to restore order. These experiments reveal the taken-for-granted rules that underpin social interactions and highlight the significance of shared understandings in maintaining social order.

4. Indexicality and Reflexivity

Ethnomethodology places a strong emphasis on the concept of "indexicality," referring to the dynamic nature of language and symbols. Meanings are not fixed but context-dependent, and individuals interpret symbols based on their situational relevance. Moreover, ethnomethodology stresses the importance of "reflexivity," urging researchers to be aware of their role in shaping the interpretations of social phenomena and to recognize the active involvement of all participants in constructing social order.

5. Everyday Life as a Site of Analysis

Ethnomethodologists argue that by studying everyday life, mundane activities, and routine interactions, one can gain profound insights into the social order. From casual conversations to more structured encounters, individuals engage in practices that contribute to the ongoing construction and negotiation of social reality.

6. Critiques and Contributions

Critics argue that ethnomethodology's focus on micro-level interactions might limit its ability to address broader structural issues in society. However, proponents highlight its unique contribution in unveiling the intricate details of social order construction. Ethnomethodology's emphasis on the agency of individuals challenges deterministic views of social order, providing a valuable perspective for understanding the dynamic nature of social life.

In conclusion, ethnomethodology offers a distinctive lens through which to explore the intricacies of social order. By investigating the methods people employ in their daily interactions, this approach sheds light on the active role individuals play in shaping and maintaining the social world. Ethnomethodology encourages researchers to delve into the subtle and often overlooked aspects of social life, enriching our understanding of how order emerges from the routine practices of individuals.