The importance of the theoretical basis of Q-methodology

This paper offers a commentary and response to ‘Beyond a set of procedures: Reclaiming the philosophical depth of Q-methodology’ by Susan Ramlo. In agreement with Susan Ramlo, an account is given of how important it was to William Stephenson to focus not just on what he called Q-technique but also on Q-methodology, which includes the set of theoretical principles informing the technique. For Stephenson, Q-methodology was contrasted with the ‘R-methodology’ associated with Pearson, Spearman, Burt and the other members of the London School who were centrally involved in developing the technical procedures of correlation and factor analysis. Stephenson was in the ‘belly of the beast’ in the sense that he worked with this group but strove to critique and re-articulate their methodological assumptions. This historical context acquires a fresh importance once we factor in that the London factorists were central figures in the development and promotion of eugenics.