The synthesis of contextualism with spectral thinking—the view that contexts themselves exist on spectra, not as discrete containers. Spectrum Contextualism argues that context is not a simple backdrop but a multidimensional space in which things are situated. Every claim, every action, every event occurs at particular coordinates on spectra of culture, history, power, and value. Understanding something means understanding its spectral context—where it falls on the dimensions that give it meaning. The theory calls for mapping contexts, for recognizing that context is not a binary (in context/out of context) but a continuous field of relations.
Example: "She tried to understand a cultural practice that seemed strange to her. Simple contextualism said 'it's different there.' Spectrum Contextualism went deeper: the practice was situated at specific coordinates on spectra of tradition, ecology, economy, and belief. Understanding those coordinates—where it fell, how it related to other points—made the practice comprehensible without making it hers. She didn't have to adopt it to understand where it stood."
by Abzugal February 21, 2026
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