What is meant by ‘thick description’?

"Thick description" is a term coined by anthropologist Clifford Geertz in his influential work "The Interpretation of Cultures." It refers to the practice of providing rich, detailed, and contextually nuanced descriptions of social phenomena, behaviors, and interactions within a particular cultural or social context.

Geertz argued that understanding human behavior requires more than just observing actions; it necessitates delving into the deeper layers of meaning and interpretation embedded within those actions. A thick description goes beyond mere observation to capture the significance, symbolism, and cultural context that underlie human behavior.

For example, if an anthropologist observes a religious ceremony, providing a thin description might involve simply noting the sequence of events and actions performed. However, a thick description would delve deeper into the meanings attached to those actions, the symbolism behind the rituals, the social dynamics at play, and how participants interpret and understand their roles within the ceremony.

Overall, thick description is a methodological approach that aims to uncover the intricate layers of meaning and interpretation that shape human behavior within specific cultural and social contexts.