Q Methodology as the Foundation for a Science of Subjectivity

Abstract

William Stephenson's 1935 letter to the Editor of Nature, published 60 years
ago, contains within its four short paragraphs all the essentials for a
science of subjectivity. Focusing on two studies - on the controversies
surrounding animal experimentation and of problem selection in policy
analysis - illustrations are provided of the new phenomena brought to
light through "inverted" factor analysis, and of the advantages of
experimentation which Q methodology enjoys. A proposed study on food
habits demonstrates how experimental probes can be made into the
cognitive and orectic aspects of nutrition and food choice. The
conclusion is reached that Q methodology remains the foundation of the
study of subjective behavior.