Asking chatgpt how hermeneutics can inform the analysis of narrative interview content: a note for Housing Studies students

Asking chatgpt (accessed via poe.com) how hermeneutics can inform the analysis of narrative interview content: a note for Housing Studies students.

My question 1 is: "I am a University student currently studying the subject of Research Methods. I have some queries about the subject of hermeneutics in this regard. First of all, could you highlight 8 main underlying ideas of hermeneutics?"

The reply from chatgpt is: "Certainly! Hermeneutics is the study of interpretation, particularly in the context of texts, language, and meaning. Here are eight main underlying ideas of hermeneutics:

Interpretation as a Process: Hermeneutics emphasizes that interpretation is not a one-time event but a dynamic process that evolves over time.

Historical Context: Understanding the historical and cultural context of a text or phenomenon is crucial for accurate interpretation. This involves recognizing how context shapes meaning.

The Hermeneutic Circle: This concept refers to the idea that understanding a text involves moving back and forth between the parts and the whole. Understanding individual components enhances comprehension of the whole, and vice versa.

Subjectivity and Objectivity: Hermeneutics acknowledges the role of the interpreter's own biases and perspectives. It argues that complete objectivity is difficult to achieve, and personal experiences shape interpretation.

Fusion of Horizons: This idea, introduced by Hans-Georg Gadamer, suggests that understanding occurs when the perspectives of the interpreter and the text converge, creating a "fusion" of different viewpoints.

Language as a Medium: Language is seen as a fundamental tool for understanding and interpreting meaning. The nuances of language affect how ideas are conveyed and understood.

Dialogical Nature: Hermeneutics often emphasizes the dialogical aspect of interpretation, suggesting that meaning emerges through conversation and interaction, rather than in isolation.

Ethical Dimensions: Interpretation carries ethical implications, as it can influence understanding and actions. Hermeneutics encourages a reflective approach to how interpretations can affect individuals and communities.

These ideas form the foundation of hermeneutic philosophy and practice, guiding researchers and interpreters in their work."

My question 2 is: "Tks for clarification. My next question is, if I conduct a narrative interview of a person about his homelessness experience of a middle-age man in Hong Kong, what hermeneutic insights could I pay attention to when analyzing the interview content?"

The reply from chatgpt is: "When analyzing a narrative interview about a middle-aged man's experience of homelessness in Hong Kong through a hermeneutic lens, consider the following insights:

Contextual Background: Pay attention to the socio-economic and cultural context of Hong Kong. How might local policies, societal attitudes, and economic conditions influence the man's experiences and narratives?

Personal History: Explore the individual's personal history and background. His past experiences, relationships, and life events can provide crucial insights into his current situation and perspectives.

Language and Expression: Analyze the language used by the interviewee. Consider the choice of words, metaphors, and expressions that might reveal deeper meanings or emotional states related to his experience of homelessness.

The Hermeneutic Circle: Engage with the text by moving between the man's specific stories (parts) and the overarching themes of his experience (whole). How do individual anecdotes contribute to broader understandings of homelessness?

Subjectivity and Bias: Reflect on your own interpretations and potential biases. Recognize how your background and beliefs might shape your understanding of the interviewee's narrative.

Fusion of Horizons: Consider how your perspective as a researcher interacts with the interviewee's worldview. What insights emerge when these perspectives are brought together?

Dialogical Engagement: Think about the dialogue established during the interview. How did the interaction itself shape the narrative? Were there moments of misunderstanding or resonance that could illuminate deeper truths?

Ethical Considerations: Reflect on the ethical implications of the interview and analysis. How does your interpretation affect the subject's dignity and representation? Ensure that the narrative is presented with sensitivity and respect.

By focusing on these hermeneutic insights, you can deepen your understanding of the interview content and the complexities of the individual's experience with homelessness."

Reference: a collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.