Using Qualitative Methods for Causal Explanation

Abstract

The view that qualitative research methods can be used to identify causal relationships and develop causal explanations is now accepted by a significant number of both qualitative and quantitative researchers. However, this view is still controversial, and a comprehensive justification for this position has never been presented. This article presents such a justification, addressing both recent philosophical developments that support this position and the actual research strategies that qualitative researchers can use in causal investigations.