IP and Ethnography: A Qualitative Research Approach

Abstract

This short chapter describes the processes of and justifications for qualitative empirical research in intellectual property as compared to other research methods, such as quantitative empirical approaches and theoretical economic analyses of law. It provides examples of these research methods, explains the reasons for pursuing a qualitative approach, and details a qualitative research agenda in the context of intellectual property law, as well as a step-by-step method of data collection and data analysis.

Keywords: IP, patents, copyright, qualitative legal research