Abstract
Human knowledge as acquired by direct experience (‘experiential knowledge’) or through
others (‘inherited knowledge’) is uncertain. In interpreting in particular, many beliefs rest on
uncertain factual bases. Scientific research offers conceptual tools, procedures and social
norms that help test beliefs and extend knowledge, but its power to do so is variable. It depends
on many factors, including features of the object of study and human and other resources
available. In interpreting, there is high behavioral variability, human resources are limited and
not all researchers are well-trained. Interpreting Studies has produced new knowledge and
highlighted uncertainties in certain widely accepted beliefs, but is yet to find answers to
fundamental questions practitioners ask. It is argued that simple research methods are basically
just as scientific and often at least as powerful as sophisticated methods in the exploration of
interpreting. Most interpreting researchers are interpreters themselves and as such, they possess
the knowledge that practitioners inherit from their trainers and senior colleagues and the
knowledge that they gain directly from the practice of interpreting. Under the influence of
regular research, they can be assumed to become more skeptical of received wisdom and more
inquisitive.
