Hermeneutics: A Broadening Scope of Inquiry

The field of hermeneutics has demonstrably co-evolved with the development of texts themselves, shaped by the advancements in science, technology, and various forms of inquiry that characterize our societies. Initially focused on interpreting specific classical texts, it has broadened its scope to encompass a wider range of textual analysis. The shift extends beyond literature, now also incorporating the concept of Dasein in philosophical inquiry. Furthermore, the field has moved from specializing in esoteric or religious texts to a focus on the vast realm of humanistic texts. This expansion continues to embrace scientific and technological discourse, including even the complexities of quantum mechanics. The understanding of these diverse areas – humanities, natural sciences, and technology – is fundamental. After all, both scientific discoveries and technological advancements rely on our ability to comprehend the world around us. This special issue delves into the exploration of science and technology through the multifaceted lens of hermeneutics. It features nine contributions exploring a wide range of topics. These contributions begin with fundamental inquiries into human interaction and communication with things, transitioning to examinations of general scientific hermeneutics and hermeneutics of more specific scientific subjects. These include the interpretation of quantum mechanics and the birth of molecular biology. The contributions theт move on toward practical hermeneutics, discussing ancient Chinese technological thought, the current use of artificial intelligence in scientific research, and Technofutures.

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