Final answer:
The search for Verstehen, or deep understanding, is central to sociological study as it seeks to comprehend the meaning individuals attach to their lives and actions. This qualitative approach contrasts with quantitative methods by focusing on empathetic understanding rather than statistical analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Studying the meaning people attach to their everyday lives is the search for Verstehen or "understanding." Sociologists aim to understand the intricacies of human behavior by exploring the deep-seated meanings individuals apply to their actions and their social world. In doing so, sociologists often employ qualitative methods, such as in-depth interviews and analysis of content sources, to gain insight into the subjective experiences that quantitative data alone may not fully capture. The concept of Verstehen, introduced by Max Weber, emphasizes the importance of gaining an empathetic understanding of individuals' perspectives within their social context. This contrasts with quantitative sociology which relies on statistical methods to uncover patterns. However, while quantitative methods seek observable and measurable data, the qualitative approach of Verstehen delves into understanding the complex layers of human social interaction from an insider's viewpoint, a crucial aspect of sociological research.