Vertaileva ja poikkikulttuurinen tutkimus. Kaksi tapaa lähestyä muita maita

Authors

• Marja Keränen

Abstract

This article discusses comparative and cross-cultural (or ethnographic) research as two different methodological approaches. The two approaches are examined in relation to how conceptions of the contextuality of meaning affect the choice of research method, and further: a) What goals can be reached through each approach, b) how the two approaches solve the problem of quantity versus quality, and c) how they solve the problem of theory versus empirical reality. Recent methodological debates in the field are reviewed here, and an attempt is made to take the debate further and create a space for dialogue between the two types of research. The problems of comparative method are discussed here in the context of European integration. As further integration calls for more comparative research and information, it is increasingly important to evaluate the quality and significance of this information. Integration is not just a new theme for research, it also raises methodological issues. Comparative research is part of the integration process: its epistemic presuppositions also have political consequences.