Suulisiintervjuusid

Suulisiintervjuusid, meaning oral history interviews in Finnish, are a method of collecting firsthand accounts of past events from individuals who experienced them. These interviews are a valuable source for historical research, providing personal perspectives, emotional nuances, and details that might not be captured in official documents or written records. They allow historians to understand the lived experiences of ordinary people, as well as those in positions of influence.

The process typically involves recording an in-depth conversation between an interviewer and an interviewee. The interviewer guides the discussion with open-ended questions, encouraging the interviewee to elaborate on their memories and experiences. The goal is to create a rich narrative that captures the interviewee's voice, tone, and subjective interpretation of events. Ethical considerations are paramount, including obtaining informed consent from the interviewee, ensuring privacy, and respecting their right to control their narrative.

Oral history interviews can cover a wide range of topics, from personal life events and family histories to significant historical moments, social movements, or professional careers. They are used by historians, sociologists, anthropologists, and other researchers to understand cultural shifts, social changes, and the impact of historical events on individuals and communities. The collected interviews are often archived and made accessible to the public, contributing to the collective memory and understanding of the past.