Abstract:

［Purpose/Significance］Since the existing definition remains lack in the nature of document, this paper intends to redefine it. ［Design/Methodology］By using phenomenological methods of "suspension", this study revealed the nature of document through subject suspension, object suspension, and relationship suspension between subjects and objects. ［Findings/Conclusion］From the perspective of phenomenology, document was redefined as a medium for recording and transmitting information in various forms, which has nothing to do with specific forms and contents. Consequently, policy documents and SNS records also belong to documents.［Originality/Value］This study has introduced the phenomenological methods to the research of document, which is helpful to make a supplement to the research perspectives of philology. It is also useful to clarify and broaden the research scope of philology, library science, information science and other related disciplines.

Key words: Document, Definition of document, Phenomenology, Phenomenological methods