About the book
In this important new book, Paul T. Phillips argues that most professional historians—aside from a relatively small number devoted to theory and methodology—have concerned themselves with particular, specialized areas of research, thereby ignoring the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning. This is less so in the thriving general community of history enthusiasts beyond academia, and may explain, in part at least, history's sharp decline as a subject of choice by students in recent years.
Phillips sees great dangers resulting from the thinking of extreme relativists and postmodernists on the futility of attaining historical truth, especially in the age of posttruth. He also believes that moral judgment and the search for meaning in history should be considered part of the discipline's mandate. In each section of this study, Phillips outlines the nature of individual issues and past efforts to address them, including approaches derived from other disciplines. This book is a call to action for all those engaged in the study of history to direct more attention to the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning.
Editions of Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9781487504533
- Paperback
- ISBN 9781487523381
- EBook
- ISBN 9781487530396
- PDF
- ISBN 9781487530389
Read an Excerpt
In this important new book, Paul T. Phillips argues that most professional historians—aside from a relatively small number devoted to theory and methodology—have concerned themselves with particular, specialized areas of research, thereby ignoring the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning. This is less so in the thriving general community of history enthusiasts beyond academia, and may explain, in part at least, history's sharp decline as a subject of choice by students in recent years.
Phillips sees great dangers resulting from the thinking of extreme relativists and postmodernists on the futility of attaining historical truth, especially in the age of posttruth. He also believes that moral judgment and the search for meaning in history should be considered part of the discipline's mandate. In each section of this study, Phillips outlines the nature of individual issues and past efforts to address them, including approaches derived from other disciplines. This book is a call to action for all those engaged in the study of history to direct more attention to the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History about?
In this important new book, Paul T. Phillips argues that most professional historians—aside from a relatively small number devoted to theory and methodology—have concerned themselves with particular, specialized areas of research, thereby ignoring the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning. This is less so in the thriving general community of history enthusiasts beyond academia, and may explain, in part at least, history's sharp decline as a subject of choice by students in recent years.
Phillips sees great dangers resulting from the thinking of extreme relativists and postmodernists on the futility of attaining historical truth, especially in the age of posttruth. He also believes that moral judgment and the search for meaning in history should be considered part of the discipline's mandate. In each section of this study, Phillips outlines the nature of individual issues and past efforts to address them, including approaches derived from other disciplines. This book is a call to action for all those engaged in the study of history to direct more attention to the fundamental questions of truth, morality, and meaning.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Religion: general > History of religion
Where can I read a sample of Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9781487504533
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History?
Paul T. Phillips
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History is available as hardcover(ISBN 9781487504533) and paperback(ISBN 9781487523381) and ebook(ISBN 9781487530396) and pdf(ISBN 9781487530389)
Where can I buy Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy Truth, Morality, and Meaning in History?