Structuring Subjectivities : using Q methodology in human geography.

Eden, Sally and Donaldson, Andrew and Walker, Gordon P (2005) Structuring Subjectivities : using Q methodology in human geography. Area, 37 (4). pp. 413-422. ISSN 0004-0894

Abstract

This paper presents a critical and reflexive account of using Q methodology in human geography. Q methodology has a long pedigree in psychological, political and sociological research, but is only recently beginning to be used by human geographers. We discuss, in particular, the parts of the process(es) of Q methodology that are often glossed over in the literature, through reflecting on our learning in using Q within a project examining the use and production of environmental science by NGOs. We conclude that Q may be a useful supplement to existing methods in human geography, as long as it is used creatively and reflexively and with full awareness of its interpretative dimensions.