The science of interpretation, or hermeneutics as it is popularly known, has made prodigious strides as detection and identification techniques have become more sophisticated: isotope ratios (such as carbon 14), spectral signatures, chemical compositions, DNA fragments, spores, bacteria, sedimentary layers, etc. are all used to situate the history or origin of an object in time and space. This makes it possible to go back in time to almost the origin of the universe, to reconstruct the history of the climate or to learn about the diet of a dinosaur. Thanks to artificial intelligence, we can even understand the meaning of the symbols and writings of civilizations that have long since disappeared.
As soon as a relationship has been established, a trace exists, if only an emotion waiting for an opportunity to reactivate itself. Erasing it, masking it, hiding it or blurring it leaves a void, a deletion or an incoherence that also bears witness to an intervention.
Living beings are hermeneutists who ignore themselves, for our ability to interpret our environment is written into our genes. It's vital, for hunters and prey alike, not to miss a single sign, even the most subtle scent. The way we look, behave, talk and dress often provide more significant information than we say; we don't hesitate to interpret everything we see.
If we always leave traces and impressions, it's fortunately possible to change their interpretation and leave room for new ones. History is always the contemporary interpretation of what happened. The same story can be reinterpreted from different points of view.
Correct and useful interpretations are only possible if we recognize what actually happened: the place, the time, the sequence, the parties involved; in other words, the exact, complete and unadulterated facts. There is a clear distinction between facts, observed from a situated point of view, and their interpretation. Criminal investigators know all about this. Achieving a global, holistic understanding requires a certain amount of effort, but also brings great satisfaction and confidence.
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Denys Lamontagne - [email protected]
Illustration: Shuttersock - 2629331653
