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...no theory of hermeneutic legitimation can be indeed…

“...no theory of hermeneutic legitimation can be indeed legitimate if not by the process of hermeneutic reading… At the origin of the hermeneutic practice, there is a circle; it does not matter how holy or how vicious.” quote by Umberto Eco
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““...no theory of hermeneutic legitimation can be indeed legitimate if not by the process of hermeneutic reading… At the origin of the hermeneutic practice, there is a circle; it does not matter how holy or how vicious.””

Umberto Eco

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Legitimacy of interpretation depends on the act of reading itself, forming a circular, self‑referential process.

In simple terms: Interpretation is a self‑referential circle.

Key Takeaway

Engage critically with texts, aware of circularity.

Themes

interpretation hermeneutics self‑reference

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

academic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic analysis
  • literary criticism
  • personal reading

Key Concepts

philosophy of language critical theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you break out of interpretive circles?
  • When is circularity productive?
A Different Perspective

Circular reasoning can trap analysis in endless loops.

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