In our time history is a favorite pursuit; as
witness the numerous books upon the subject which appear every year.
If the reader cannot help thinking, with me, that history is merely
the constant recurrence of similar things, just as in a kaleidoscope
the same bits of glass are represented, but in different combinations,
he will not be able to share all this lively interest; nor, however,
will he censure it. But there is a ridiculous and absurd claim, made
by many people, to regard history as a part of philosophy, nay, as
philosophy itself; they imagine that history can take its place.
The preference shown for history by the greater public in all ages may
be illustrated by the kind of conversation which is so much in vogue
everywhere in society. It generally consists in one person relating
something and then another person relating something else; so that in
this way everyone is sure of receiving attention. Both here and in the
case of history it is plain that the mind is occupied with particular
details. But as in science, so also in every worthy conversation, the
mind rises to the consideration of some general truth.
This objection does not, however, deprive history of its value. Human
life is short and fleeting, and many millions of individuals share in
it, who are swallowed by that monster of oblivion which is waiting for
them with ever-open jaws.
Pages:
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95