ABSTRACT
Hermeneutic analysis, or simply hermeneutics, is a qualitative analysis technique used for the in-depth interpretation of documents and texts. Hermeneutics emerged after the Reformation as an approach to the study of biblical texts, but it has been greatly expanded in scope and is now a fundamental method for analyzing the underlying meaning and intent of all types of written texts, including political documents. The search for meaning in a written or published political text takes place during a search that follows three foundations: 1) Through the eyes and intent of the writer or creator of the text or artifact, 2) according to the time frame existing at the time of the writing and 3) through consideration of the political and cultural environmental influences existing at the time of the creation of the text or artifact. This chapter includes guidance on employing the method.
