Meaning: Wilhelm Dilthey, a German historian, philosopher, and psychologist, made significant contributions to the fields of hermeneutics and the philosophy of history. The quote, "Thus there arose in me both a need and a plan for the foundation of the human sciences" encapsulates Dilthey's deep-seated conviction in the necessity of establishing a robust framework for understanding human experiences and behaviors. This statement reflects Dilthey's endeavor to establish a distinct methodological approach for the human sciences, separating them from the natural sciences.

Dilthey's assertion of the need for a foundation for the human sciences can be understood in the context of his broader philosophical framework. He was deeply concerned with the unique nature of human experience and the challenges of understanding and interpreting it within the realm of scientific inquiry. Unlike the natural sciences, which deal with objective, empirical phenomena, the human sciences, including disciplines such as history, sociology, and psychology, grapple with the complexities of human consciousness, culture, and social interactions. Dilthey recognized the need for a methodological framework that could account for the subjective, interpretive nature of human experiences while maintaining scholarly rigor and coherence.

In formulating his plan for the foundation of the human sciences, Dilthey emphasized the importance of understanding human phenomena through interpretation and understanding (Verstehen). He argued that the human sciences should adopt a hermeneutic approach, focusing on the interpretation of cultural and historical expressions to grasp the meaning and significance embedded within them. This approach stands in contrast to the natural sciences' emphasis on explanation and causal relationships, reflecting Dilthey's recognition of the distinct nature of human experiences and the need for a methodological framework tailored to their study.

Dilthey's efforts to establish a foundation for the human sciences also encompassed his critique of positivist approaches that sought to apply the methods of the natural sciences to human phenomena. He believed that such an approach failed to capture the richness and complexity of human experiences, reducing them to mere objects of empirical inquiry. Instead, Dilthey advocated for a holistic understanding of human phenomena that acknowledged the interconnectedness of individual experiences, cultural traditions, and historical contexts.

In practical terms, Dilthey's plan for the foundation of the human sciences involved developing methodologies and principles that could guide scholars in their inquiries into human experiences and cultural expressions. He emphasized the importance of historical understanding, highlighting the role of historical consciousness in shaping human identity and cultural developments. Furthermore, Dilthey sought to establish the human sciences as legitimate domains of scholarly inquiry, distinct from but complementary to the natural sciences.

Dilthey's ideas have had a lasting impact on the development of disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies. His emphasis on interpretation, historical understanding, and the unique nature of human experiences has influenced generations of scholars seeking to explore the complexities of human societies and individual lives. Moreover, his advocacy for a distinct foundation for the human sciences continues to resonate in contemporary debates about the nature of knowledge and the methodologies appropriate for studying human phenomena.

In conclusion, Wilhelm Dilthey's quote reflects his deep-seated conviction in the need for a foundation for the human sciences and his determination to establish a robust methodological framework for understanding human experiences and behaviors. His emphasis on interpretation, historical understanding, and the distinct nature of human phenomena has left a lasting legacy, shaping the trajectory of the human sciences and inspiring scholars to grapple with the complexities of human life and culture.