  
|  |
 |
Philosophy and the History of Ideas
Mark Bevir
|
| Seminar Introduction |
|
In its broadest sense, the history of ideas is the study of the meanings which have been generated by successive cultures. Historians study these meanings in an attempt to understand the past. But in order to grasp those meanings, it is necessary to have a sense of the best method of approach, to know what forms of reasoning are most appropriate for the task. This is where philosophy can help, allowing historians to consider profound questions concerning the nature of meaning and objective knowledge, in the process hoping to come to a better understanding of history and, ultimately, of the human condition. In this seminar, Cambridge University Press author Mark Bevir (right) outlines his perception of the logic of the history of ideas. Based on the book of that name, enhanced by commentary from the author, the seminar draws heavily on ideas prevalent in analytic philosophy. The author offers an explanation of his understanding of history, philosophy, meaning and language, and gives a sense of the many philosophical issues which are inherent in the study of history.
|
| Learning Objectives |
Explore the fundamental objectives of the historian of ideas. Evaluate the relationship between philosophy and history. Enumerate different approaches to the concept of meaning. Investigate the notion of objectivity.
|
| Sessions |
|
| Credits |
The text of this seminar is taken from The Logic of the History of Ideas by Mark Bevir, published by Cambridge University Press, copyright Mark Bevir, 1999. Video interviews with the author were conducted in London in July 2001. Copyright Cambridge University Press, 2001.
Human cultures generate meanings, and the history of ideas, broadly conceived, is the study of these meanings. An adequate theory of culture must therefore rest on a suitable philosophical enquiry into the nature of the history of ideas. Mark Bevir's book explores the forms of reasoning appropriate to the history of ideas, enhancing our understanding by grappling with central questions such as: what is meaning? What constitutes objective knowledge of the past? What are beliefs and traditions? How can we explain why people held the beliefs they did? The book ranges widely over issues and theorists associated with post-analytic philosophy, post-modernism, hermeneutics, literary theory, political thought and social theory.
The Logic of the History of Ideas
Bevir, Mark
Hardback (1999)
|
| Technical Requirements |
To appreciate this seminar experience, it is critical that you have the appropriate software, plug-ins, and network connections. Please take the time to download the latest versions of the plug-ins mentioned below if you do not already have them.
Browser: Netscape versions 4.x up to 4.76, or Internet Explorer versions 4.x or later. Your browser must have JavaScript enabled and must be set to accept cookies.
Network Connection: The recommended minimum connection is 56K modem with throughput of 34Kbps or more. A faster connection is encouraged to take better advantage of the media elements in the seminar. Plug-ins: If you do not have RealPlayer and Flash Player already installed, please download them from the following sites:
|
|
|
