Overview
Conduct a research replicating Thevenot and Boltanski's study. Your task is to invite three friends (one at a time) to play the role of Sherlock Holmes. Ask them to observe strangers in a public place (e.g. strolling along State Street on a Sunday afternoon) and derive as much information as possible from the way these strangers look.
Your Task:
- Select Friends: Choose three friends, ideally with experience in the US.
- Observation Trials: Accompany each friend on separate occasions for a total of five trials. While walking along State Street, point out a passerby (from a distance) and have your friend observe them discreetly. After the person passes, ask your friend to share their observations with you.
- Recording Responses: Record your friends' responses for accuracy (with permission their permission!). You can use audio recording to capture their impressions as they describe their observations.
- Synopsis of Observations: After completing all 15 trials (five for each friend), compile a short synopsis of the observations made by each friend. Analyze what your friends noticed about the strangers' appearance. Identify details related to social status, personality, lifestyle, and possible life history that your friends believe they can deduce from appearances.
- Comparing Impressions: Compare the observations made by your friends with your own impressions. Note any similarities or differences in what each person noticed. Reflect on the extent to which these observations align with your understanding of consumption nuances in the US.
- Paper Writing: Write a 1000 word paper summarizing your research.
Important Considerations:
- Ensure your friends are comfortable with the assignment before proceeding.
- Respect privacy and avoid invading the personal space of strangers.
- Maintain a respectful distance during observations.