Can We Be Wrong? The Problem of Textual Evidence in a Time of Data

In a world increasingly dominated by data, the challenge of interpreting textual evidence takes center stage. Andrew Piper explores how generalizations drawn from texts can often misrepresent the intricacies of human experience. By interrogating the relationship between narrative and truth, he invites readers to reconsider the reliability of textual analysis in an era where data reigns supreme.

Piper eloquently argues that the assumptions we make about texts can lead us astray, prompting a deeper investigation into how context and interpretation shape our understanding. The work emphasizes the need for critical scrutiny, urging scholars and readers alike to question their own biases when engaging with written material.

Through incisive analysis and thought-provoking insights, this Element positions itself as a crucial conversation starter in both literary studies and data-driven disciplines, challenging the notion that text can be easily reduced to mere evidence. It is a call to embrace complexity and recognize the valuable, yet often elusive, nuances embedded within narratives.