Research methodology applied to the social sciences: From hermeneutics to holistic and cross-cultural
Hermeneutics is fundamentally the art and science of interpretation. While it has traditionally focused on the interpretation of texts—especially in literature, law, and theology—it has broadened to encompass various interpretive practices across multiple disciplines. Essentially, hermeneutics aims to uncover the meaning behind different forms of expression, whether they are written, spoken, or visual. This interpretive process transcends mere comprehension of explicit content, delving into the underlying intentions, cultural contexts, and historical backgrounds that inform these expressions. Thus, hermeneutics serves as a bridge between the observer and the observed, facilitating a deeper understanding of human experiences and social phenomena.