Final answer:
Cultural anthropology differs from sociology and survey research primarily in its methodological approach, with an emphasis on participant observation and a deep dive into the details of human cultures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Distinguishing Cultural Anthropology from Sociology and Survey Research: Cultural anthropology is distinct from sociology and survey research in several ways. While sociology tends to focus on social systems and structures at a macro level, cultural anthropology dives deep into the intricacies of human cultures at a micro level. Participant observation, a key method in cultural anthropology, involves researchers immersing themselves in the daily lives of the people they study for extended periods. This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of the social and cultural dynamics at play. Furthermore, cultural anthropology's approach to understanding the ontology of different cultures—their fundamental reality and experiences—is unique. Cultural anthropologists often explore social phenomena that encompass both physical presence and digital interactions, examining how new media technologies affect cultural practices, sociality, and identity formation in the internet age. In comparison, survey research and sociology might utilize questionnaires and other quantitative methods to gather data from larger populations, offering a broader but potentially less in-depth perspective. Anthropologists are adept at integrating both quantitative and qualitative information to create holistic interpretations of cultures and societies.