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Introduction to the Philosophy of History
Introduction to the Philosophy of History Author:Geoffrey Thomas This guide to the philosophy of history discusses four central questions: since, in some sense, the past does not exist, is historical knowledge possible? If it is possible, what is its exact basis in evidence? What is the proper form of historical knowlege - should it aim at scientific generality or seek to elucidate unique events? Can historic... more »al knowledge be fully objective or is it always marked by personal bias, social perspective and ethical judgement? As well as discussing such important questions in the logic and methodology of historical inquiry, Geoffrey Thomas also examines 'speculative' philosophy of history - the attempt to discern patterns or rhythms in past events. The book provides a critical commentary on the contributions of a range of influential theorists, from Aristotle through St Augustine, Machiavelli, Hegel, Marx and J.S. Mill to Collingwood, Oakeshott, Popper, Derrida, Foucault and the feminist historian Sheila Rowbotham.« less