Geertz’s "The Interpretation of Cultures"

Clifford Geertz’s "The Interpretation of Cultures" emphasizes that cultures are systems of shared symbols and meanings that shape how people understand the world. He advocates for "thick description," a detailed way of analyzing these symbols to uncover the deeper social and emotional realities they represent. Instead of just listing facts, Geertz suggests interpreting cultural expressions—like rituals, stories, or behaviors—to grasp their significance. This approach helps us see cultures as complex, meaningful webs of human experience, enabling deeper understanding of why people act the way they do within their social contexts.