The Philosophy of History: Talks Given at the Institute of Historical Research, London, 2000-2006

Synopsis

The Philosophy of History contains a selection of talks given at the Philosophy of History seminar in the Institute of Historical Research, London, in the period 2000 - 2006. It is intended to put students of the philosophy of history, historians, teachers of history and members of the general public in touch with what is being researched and discussed today at what might be described as the cutting edge of philosophy of history studies. Subjects discussed in the seminar, by amongst others Eccy de Jonge, William Scott, Leslie Armour, Michael O'Neill, Beatrice Han-Pile, Oliver Daddow, Beverley Southgate and Ray Monk, include Spinoza, Hegel's History of Philosophy, 'the end of history', intertextuality, time, early Foucault, the concept of civilization, objectivity and the relationship between biography and history. In particular, the collection reflects the fierce debate at present taking place between the postmodern critics of history, led by amongst others Keith Jenkins and Alun Munslow - both of whom have contributed articles to the collection - and the defenders of history, here represented by amongst others James Connelly and Mary Fulbrook. it is evident from the articles contained in this collection that no early resolution of the controversy is to be expected.