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.