CultureAugust 28, 2026
autoethnography
aw-toe-eth-NOG-ruh-fee
Definition
A qualitative research method where a researcher uses their own personal experience to analyze and interpret broader cultural, social, or political phenomena.
Etymology
The word is a hybrid of the Greek 'autos' (self), 'ethnos' (nation or people), and 'graphein' (to write), first gaining popularity in social science research in the late 20th century to describe writing about oneself in a cultural context.
In the news
Emily Culbreath notes that her teaching and creative work are informed by autoethnography, suggesting she uses her own identity and lived experience as a lens to explore deeper cultural and social themes.
Bates welcomes new faculty
Read the full article ↗Bates College