It's Not the Notes That Make it Jazz: Why Structure is Important in Jazz, the Natural Sciences, and Q Methodology

Abstract

Our world is full of algorithms that operate within social media, face identification, et cetera. Is the algorithm the secret to uncovering meaning and understanding within Q methodology or are algorithms also full of subjectivity? Stephenson predicted the problems others would have with Q methodology. Steven Brown suggested that one must get “a feeling for the organism” during interpretation, yet some Q researchers seem to seek formulaic approaches to their Q studies, sans a sense of feeling for the subjectivities uncovered. In this way, these formulaic researchers seek a set of algorithms to perform Q studies much like novice physics students often approach problem solving. However, as a famous jazz bassist stated, “It’s not the notes that makes it jazz … it’s not music without structure.” This assertion was the impetus for addressing how Q, jazz music, and natural science use structure to frame exploration, interaction, and inquiry. Thus, the various structures within the stages of any Q study can help frame any study but in a way that is always new and inclusive while embracing inquiry and exploration.