verstehen is defined by the text as
Answer (1)
In the context of German studies, "verstehen" is a German word that means "to understand."
It is often discussed in philosophy and sociology, particularly in relation to the ideas of the German sociologist Max Weber. Weber used "verstehen" as a methodological concept fundamental to his interpretive sociology.
Here is a breakdown of its use:
Who : Max Weber, a German sociologist.
What : "Verstehen" is understood as the attempt to understand social behavior from the perspective of the individuals involved.
When : Weber's work on sociology, especially his methodology, was developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Where : This concept is primarily used in the context of German sociology and philosophy but has been influential worldwide.
Why : "Verstehen" is used to gain insight into the motivations and meanings behind human actions, allowing researchers to interpret social phenomena in a more nuanced way.
How : By immersing oneself in the cultural and social milieu of the studied group, a researcher can understand the subjective meanings that people attach to their actions.
In summary, "verstehen" is a concept that highlights the importance of understanding human behavior from the inside, looking at the purposes and meanings people assign to their actions.
