hermeneutiline

Hermeneutiline is a neologism used to describe an interdisciplinary approach that blends hermeneutics—the theory and practice of interpretation—with utilitarian considerations or ethics. The term is not widely standardized and appears primarily in speculative or theoretical discussions about how interpretive methods influence judgments about utility, consequences, and social value.

Etymology and scope

The word is formed from hermeneutics and utilitarian (or utility), signaling an intent to interpret norms, texts, or policies through an analysis of likely outcomes while remaining attentive to historical context and the horizons of interpretation. In this sense, hermeneutiline aims to connect interpretive understanding with evaluative judgments about welfare, efficiency, or social good.

Conceptual framework

Proponents envision a method in which readings or interpretations are tested not only for coherence and intent but also for practical impact. Reading through a hermeneutic lens, one would consider how different communities or cultural contexts interpret a text or policy, and then assess the likely consequences of those readings for well-being, justice, or public utility. The approach seeks to balance contextual meaning with evaluative criteria, acknowledging that interpretations can shape real-world outcomes.

Methodology

Hermeneutiline would apply traditional hermeneutic tools—pre-understanding, the hermeneutic circle, and contextual analysis—alongside pragmatic and utilitarian criteria. The method encourages transparency about normative commitments, pluralism of perspectives, and the need to examine how interpretive choices influence perceived usefulness.

Criticism and reception

Critics argue that prioritizing utility risks instrumentalizing interpretation and diminishing focus on intrinsic meaning or rights. Others see value in bridging interpretive depth with practical implications, provided safeguards against reductive conclusions.

See also

Hermeneutics; Utilitarianism; Pragmatism; Moral philosophy.