ILTS Social Science History (246) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Social Science History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The topic that would most benefit from ethnography is the effect of power dynamics in determining group values. Ethnography involves immersive observation and participation in the daily lives and practices of a particular group. This methodology allows researchers to deeply understand how power relations and social hierarchies can shape the values, beliefs, and behaviors of individuals within a community.

By engaging directly with participants, ethnographers can observe the nuances of power dynamics as they manifest in real-life interactions and cultural practices. This approach provides insights into the context-specific influences that might not be captured through quantitative methods or surveys. Understanding how group values are influenced by power dynamics requires a nuanced, in-depth approach that ethnography uniquely offers.

In contrast, the other topics may be better addressed through methodologies that focus on statistical analysis or policy evaluation. For example, studying the impact of environmental changes on regional resources might utilize data analysis to quantify changes, while evaluating government policies typically requires a structured analysis of outcomes and effectiveness rather than the subjective insights gained through ethnography. Similarly, examining the influence of economic factors on individual decisions often lends itself to survey methodologies or experimental designs that can more systematically explore economic theories.