Personal reflections on participant observation as a methodology in the social sciences

The author discusses the value of participant observation as a methodology in the social sciences. From ten years of experience he has culled both academic and personal reflections. The author discusses participant observation as anthropological fieldwork, alterations in perceptions and internalization of methodology, increased self awareness and an increased sense of finiteness.Dr. Paul F. Bauer is Dean of Student Services and Professor of Philosophy at Cecil Community College North East, MD 21901. This article is revised from a guest lecture at the Iliff School of Theology, March 11, 1982.