Deconstruction is a philosophical approach that seeks to uncover the hidden meanings and assumptions in texts, ideas, and cultural practices. It was popularized by the French philosopher Jacques Derrida in the late 20th century. Rather than taking a text at face value, deconstruction examines how language can create multiple interpretations and reveal contradictions within the text itself. This method encourages readers to question established beliefs and explore the complexities of meaning. By doing so, deconstruction highlights the fluidity of language and the ways in which our understanding of concepts, such as identity and truth, can shift depending on context and perspective.