In what way do cultural anthropologists primarily gather data?

Cultural anthropologists primarily gather data through participant observation and ethnography because these methods allow them to immerse themselves in the daily lives and cultures of the people they study. By being a part of the community, anthropologists can observe social interactions, rituals, and practices firsthand, leading to a deeper understanding of cultural norms and values. This approach emphasizes the importance of context and the lived experiences of individuals within their cultural framework.

Participant observation involves both observing and engaging with the community, which creates a more nuanced understanding of social dynamics and cultural practices. Ethnography, which often results from this method, provides detailed accounts of cultural life, reflecting the complexity and richness of human societies. This qualitative data collection is fundamental to cultural anthropology, distinguishing it from other approaches in the social sciences that may rely more heavily on quantitative methods or secondary data sources.

While other choices involve methods related to data collection, they do not reflect the immersive and holistic approach that characterizes cultural anthropology.