Final answer:
The question refers to a contemporary ethnographic practice that incorporates multiple perspectives and voices to create a more accurate and complete representation of cultures. This includes collecting viewpoints from a variety of participants using methods such as participant observation and open-ended research, acknowledging the biases of the researcher, and empowering studied communities through collaborative practices like multispecies ethnography and Photovoice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practice mentioned in the question refers to an ethnographic approach that values multiple perspectives and voices within research practice. Through the use of participant observation and open-ended research, ethnographers aim to gather a broad spectrum of viewpoints, allowing for a richer and more nuanced portrayal of the cultures or societies they study. This strategy is not only about achieving diversity but about providing a comprehensive understanding that includes acknowledging the researcher's own biases and the variety of experiences and narratives within a community.
The Evolution of Ethnographic Practice
Historically, early anthropological research often included a single perspective, which resulted in a biased understanding of the cultures being studied. Modern ethnography, however, seeks to include people of different genders, ages, and social roles to counteract these biases. It also emphasizes the importance of collaboration, recognizing the roles both researchers and participants play in shaping the research and its outcomes.
Embracing a Multitude of Voices in Ethnography
Methods like multispecies ethnography and Photovoice are examples of how contemporary ethnographic research includes diverse experiences. These approaches help researchers to understand interactions and perspectives that extend beyond the human experience and recognize traditionally excluded voices. In this way, ethnography is evolving into a discipline that not only describes cultures but also empowers and shares authority with the studied communities.