idiographic
Definition
Adjective Relating to or involving the study of individuals or unique cases, as opposed to the search for general laws or principles that apply to all.
Usage
The term "idiographic" is used primarily in academic and scientific contexts, such as psychology, history, and the social sciences. It describes an approach that focuses on the detailed, in-depth understanding of a single subject, event, or phenomenon in all its particularity.
Examples
- The researcher's idiographic approach involved a year-long case study of a single patient to understand the unique progression of the rare condition.
- Historians often employ an idiographic method, meticulously documenting the specific causes and events leading to a particular war.
- In contrast to nomothetic psychology, which seeks universal laws of behavior, idiographic psychology values the individual's personal narrative and life history.
Advanced Usage
- Idiographic Science: A branch of science concerned with individual cases and unique events. It is often contrasted with "nomothetic" science, which aims to formulate general laws.
- The debate between nomothetic and idiographic approaches continues in many fields of social research.
Variants and Related Words
- Idiographically (adverb): In an idiographic manner.
- The phenomenon was analyzed idiographically, focusing on its unique context.
Synonyms
- Individual-centered
- Particularistic
- Case-study-oriented
Antonyms
- Nomothetic (relating to the study or discovery of general scientific laws)
Adjective
-
relating to or involving the study of individuals
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