Abstract
The text presents the model of abductive spirals as a new conceptualization of the process of understanding, based partly on the concepts of the hermeneutic circle and partly on Peirce's late notion of abduction proper. Empirical support for the proposal presented is also sought in recent research by cognitivists.
The resulting picture takes into account both the conscious and unconscious parts of cognition. In addition to the descriptive part, some methodological recommendations are also made.