Bachelor [Interpretation Theory] From Swarthmore College

Students use this course of study to develop a flexible, deeply historicized grasp of critical and cultural theory. They also sharpen their skills in critical reading and intellectual analysis.

All academic disciplines, from anthropology to zoology, involve interpretation. What distinguishes interpretation theory from other departments and programs at Swarthmore is that interpretation itself constitutes the focus of study. Thus, in order for a course to be included in the interpretation theory minor, it must self-consciously and explicitly incorporate the study of hermeneutics in addition to whatever other subject matter may be explored, an epistemological distinction embodied by the relationship between historiography and history. Therefore, rather than treating theory as secondary, the Interpretation Theory program stresses its centrality.