Meaning and interpretation: insights and discourse

Abstract

Purpose

The paper seeks to analyze the discourse of meaning and interpretation in the social sciences. It aims to provide a historical overview of the hermeneutics and the need for scientific as well as general understanding, and to emphasize the importance of the interpretive approach in management history.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an in‐depth literature review of interpretation.

Findings

Interpretative approach is a basic building block of all science and management praxis.

Research limitations/implications

Literature is limited to social science.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the importance of interpretation in management dialogue and praxis, vis‐à‐vis a sole reliance on rationalistic methods.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the scope of its literature review and the broad understanding it provides for management praxis.

Citation

Kakabadse, N.K. and Steane, P. (2010), "Meaning and interpretation: insights and discourse", Journal of Management History, Vol. 16 No. 3, pp. 346-366. https://doi.org/10.1108/17511341011051243