The contemporary relevance of the Erklären / Verstehen distinction in psychiatry and biology

It is often held that the methodological debate on the distinction between Erklären (or explanation) and Verstehen (or interpretation) is merely of historical relevance, important only because it contributed to the formation of the humanities as a separate academic domain. However, many contemporary discussions on scientific methods seem to echo aspects of this historical debate. For example, do we need to take the first-person perspective into account in neuroscientific studies on mental disorder? Or, does the notion of ‘meaning’ play a role in biological information? It could be that elements of Verstehen are not only important for the humanities, but for other academic disciplines as well. This would suggest that reflection on the relationship between Erklären and Verstehen might contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of scientific explanation in general.

This two-day workshop will raise the question to what extent the classic Erklären –Verstehen distinction is relevant to these contemporary discussions, or whether progress in these domains requires other concepts and distinctions. The programme will contain both historical and systematic contributions as well as specific sessions on current developments in psychiatry and biology.

Confirmed speakers:

Maarten van Dyck (Gent), Marcus Düwell (Utrecht), Sanneke de Haan (Amsterdam), Annemarie Kalis (Utrecht), Derek Strijbos (Nijmegen) Tim Thornton (Lancastershire), Martin Stokhof (Amsterdam), Rolf Viervant (Rotterdam), Albert Visser (Utrecht), Paul Ziche (Utrecht)

Practical information & registration: 

Location: Zaalverhuur 7, Boothstraat, Utrecht. Registration costs: 35€ (coffee/tea & lunches included). For information and registration, please e-mail Annemarie Kalis: [email protected]