"The Interpretation of Cultures" is a collection of essays by anthropologist Clifford Geertz, published in 1973. The work emphasizes the importance of understanding cultures through their symbols and meanings, rather than merely through observable behaviors. Geertz argues that culture is a system of inherited conceptions expressed in symbolic forms, which shape how individuals perceive and interact with the world. One of the key concepts introduced in the book is the idea of "thick description," which involves providing detailed context to understand cultural practices. This approach allows anthropologists to interpret the deeper significance of actions and rituals within a culture, making it possible to appreciate the complexities of human behavior and social life.