Conversation Analysis and Ethnomethodology

Abstract There can be hardly any doubt that ethnomethodology has been a major influence in the emergence of conversation analysis (CA) as a unique perspective in the human sciences. Gradually, however, the two seem to have drifted apart. The current situation is ambiguous: For some of its practitioners, CA is still part of the ethnomethodological movement, while many others treat it as an independent pursuit. This entry will provide a summary characterization of ethnomethodology with a focus on its research practices and a consideration of its relation to CA.