Methods and methodologies are closely related concepts in social science research, but they are not identical. In anthropology, understanding the distinction between the two is important because anthropological research involves systematic investigation of human beings, cultures, societies, institutions and social relationships. A method generally refers to a specific technique or procedure used by a researcher to collect, organize and analyse information, whereas methodology refers to the broader logic, principles, assumptions and theoretical framework that guide the selection and application of research methods. A method is a particular way of obtaining or analysing data. In anthropological research, common methods include participant observation, interviews, questionnaires, genealogies, case studies, life histories, observation, field notes, mapping, photography and the collection of documents. For example, an anthropologist may use participant observation to understand the everyday activities and beliefs of a community. Similarly, interviews may be used to obtain people's explanations, experiences and opinions. Thus, methods are practical tools through which research is conducted. Methodology has a broader meaning. It concerns the reasoning behind research procedures and asks why a particular method is appropriate for a particular research problem. It includes assumptions about knowledge, reality, evidence and the relationship between the researcher and the people being studied. Methodology therefore provides a framework within which methods are selected and interpreted. Two researchers may use the same interview method but follow different methodologies because they may have different theoretical assumptions about knowledge and social reality. In anthropology, methodology