Elucidating the meaning of life world phenomena. A phenomenological hermeneutical method for researching lived experience

In this paper, a phenomenological hermeneutical method for interpreting narrative texts is proposed. Interviewees are asked to tell from their lived experience of participating in life world phenomena. The interview texts are written down and analysed, inspired by the theory of interpretation of Paul Ricoeur, in three steps: a first, naive reading, structural analysis and comprehensive understanding. The method was presented the first time in 2004. In this paper, the theory behind it is elaborated. Basic concepts like phenomenon, meaning, life world, lived experience and concrete reflection are clarified, and the historical background of the method and its ontology, epistemology and methodology are explained.

Automated summary

The paper introduces a phenomenological hermeneutical method for interpreting narrative texts, where interviewees share their lived experiences of participating in life world phenomena. Inspired by Paul Ricoeur's theory of interpretation, the method involves three steps: first, naive reading, structural analysis, and comprehensive understanding. The paper elaborates on the theory behind the method, clarifying basic concepts and explaining its historical background, ontology, epistemology, and methodology.