Interpretation refers to the elucidating and explicating meaning of something. It includes noticing the deeper meaning, function, or intent of something written, pictorial in nature or an event.
Types of Interpretation
Hermeneutics:
Deals with the textual interpretation of religious and philosophical texts.
It is then about the history of a text, the cultural context in which it was created, and how one word might be interpreted differently.
Phenomenological Interpretation:
Seeks to get at the subjective experiences of people.
It consists of investigating the meaning individuals ascribe to their experiences.
Scientific Interpretation:
This is based on data analysis and conclusions through scientific means.
It uses observable evidence, observed event.
Artistic Interpretation:
Includes the study and interpretation of works, such as paintings, sculptures, and illustrations.
It often takes into account artist intent, cultural context and aesthetic virtues.
Principles of Interpretation
Understanding the context: Taking into account historical, cultural and social background of the text or event.
Authorial Intent — The purpose and intended meaning of the author.
Reader Response: Emphasizing the role of reader interpretation and personal experiences.
Critical Thinking: Using your ability to think critically and assess information.
Multidisicplinary: Approaching demographic foes from multiple disciplines.
Challenges in Interpretation
Interpretation can be subjective and potentially colored by the idiosyncrasies of our thinking.
Ambiguity: Text and events can be subjected to more than one interpretation
Cultural Differences: Different cultures would interpret the same text or event differently.
Why Interpretation Matters
Interpretation holds a place that plays in such things from the meaning of a simple text, to an everyday experience of human behavior and further into the complexities of our society. It helps us to:
Irrespective of your profession (Pharmaceutical, Manufacturing or Finance), having some basic knowledge is important: Past, Present and Future.
Problem Solving: Improving and delivering solutions.
Issue Communication: Communicating concepts and data with others.
Enjoy Art and Culture: Learn about the beauty of art forms.
