Meaning: Wilhelm Dilthey, a German philosopher, historian, and psychologist, made significant contributions to the fields of hermeneutics, psychology, and the philosophy of history. The quote, "If there were a science of human beings it would be anthropology that aims at understanding the totality of experience through structural context," reflects Dilthey's emphasis on the importance of understanding human experiences within their cultural and historical contexts. This quote encapsulates his belief in the significance of anthropology as a discipline that seeks to comprehend the entirety of human experience by considering the structural and contextual factors that shape it.

Dilthey's perspective on the science of human beings is rooted in his rejection of the idea that the methods of natural sciences could fully capture the complexity of human experiences. Instead, he advocated for an approach that recognizes the unique and multifaceted nature of human existence, taking into account the cultural, historical, and social dimensions that contribute to the totality of human experience. This approach aligns with the foundational principles of anthropology, which seeks to understand human societies and cultures through a holistic and comparative lens.

Anthropology, as Dilthey suggests, is concerned with uncovering the structural context that underlies human experiences. This structural context encompasses the social, economic, political, and cultural frameworks within which individuals and communities operate. By studying these structural contexts, anthropologists aim to gain insights into the diverse ways in which human beings perceive and navigate the world around them. Through ethnographic research, anthropologists immerse themselves in different cultural settings, seeking to understand the underlying patterns and structures that influence human behavior, beliefs, and practices.

Dilthey's emphasis on the totality of experience highlights the interconnectedness of human life and the importance of considering the entirety of human experience in anthropological inquiry. This holistic approach stands in contrast to reductionist perspectives that seek to isolate and analyze individual components of human existence in isolation. Instead, anthropology, as envisioned by Dilthey, aims to grasp the full scope of human experience by examining the interplay between various factors, such as language, kinship, religion, and economic systems, within different societies and cultures.

Furthermore, Dilthey's emphasis on understanding human experience through structural context aligns with the broader anthropological goal of uncovering the underlying patterns and meanings that shape human behavior and social life. By situating human experiences within their respective cultural and historical contexts, anthropology seeks to illuminate the cultural norms, values, and symbolic systems that shape individuals' perceptions and actions. This approach allows anthropologists to appreciate the diversity of human experiences while also identifying commonalities that transcend cultural boundaries.

In conclusion, Wilhelm Dilthey's quote underscores the significance of anthropology as a discipline that aims to understand the totality of human experience through the consideration of structural context. His perspective aligns with the holistic and comparative nature of anthropological inquiry, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of human life and the cultural and historical factors that shape it. By embracing Dilthey's vision, anthropologists can continue to enrich our understanding of human diversity and the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the richness of human experience.