What is History? (Part 5 of 6) - Ethics: good history is not heritage.

Summary

This lesson discusses the distinction between history and heritage, emphasizing the importance of factual history in understanding the past. It critiques the misuse of history for present-day purposes, like creating myths and nationalist narratives, which is termed as 'heritage'. The instructor highlights the role of historians in combating the abuse of the past and the significance of history education in shaping perceptions of national identity.

Takeaways

• 📚 The script discusses the importance of history as a subject and its interpretation through different lenses, particularly postmodernism.
• 🎨 Postmodernism's influence on history is highlighted, suggesting that language does not merely reflect reality but also shapes our understanding of it.
• 👨‍🏫 Historian Jeffrey Elton is mentioned as being critical of postmodernism, viewing it as a threat to the integrity of historical studies.
• 🚫 Elton warns against the influence of literary critics on historical studies, comparing the allure of postmodern thought to dangerous substances.
• 🧐 The script suggests that historical knowledge is often derived from popular culture, not just academic sources, referencing British school children's historical knowledge.
• 🏛️ The concept of 'heritage' is introduced as distinct from 'history', with heritage being more about present-day purposes and less about uncovering past truths.
• 🌐 Heritage is described as pervasive in modern society, present in media, education, and commercial advertising.
• 🌿 Nostalgia is portrayed as a form of comfort in times of change and uncertainty, with heritage providing a sense of stability.
• 🏫 The script emphasizes the significance of history education and the controversy surrounding the content of history textbooks.
• 🤔 Critical thinking is encouraged in history education to analyze documents and challenge the narratives presented in heritage.
• ⚔️ The political dimension of heritage is noted, with its potential to be used for nationalistic purposes and the role of historians in challenging such uses of the past.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the series of lessons the speaker is teaching?

The main theme of the series of lessons is to explore the fundamental issues surrounding the question of what is history, particularly in the context of postmodern critique and its implications for the discipline.

Who are some of the postmodern critics mentioned in the script that have influenced the study of history?

Hayden White is mentioned as a postmodern critic who has influenced the study of history, and Keith Jenkins is noted for popularizing these ideas.

What does Jeffrey Elton view as a threat to the study of history?

Jeffrey Elton views the postmodern contention that history is about creating meaning as much as uncovering it as a dangerous threat to the subject of history.

What is the difference between history and heritage as explained in the script?

History is the study of the past for its own sake, seeking to uncover and explain what really happened. Heritage, on the other hand, is the use of the past for present-day purposes, often to provide identity, entertainment, or to sell products, and it is not an inquiry into the past but a celebration of it.

Why is history considered vitally important according to the script?

History is considered vitally important because it is the most powerful weapon against the abuse of the past. It helps to identify and counter the misuse of historical narratives for political or nationalistic purposes.

What role do historians play in relation to heritage?

Historians play a role in the heritage industry by teaching how to critically analyze historical documents and write structured essays, but they are also the ones who can challenge the myths and partiality often found in heritage narratives.

Why are history textbooks often a subject of controversy?

History textbooks can be controversial because they are often used to promote a particular national narrative or ideology, and different countries may emphasize or omit certain historical events to suit their own purposes.

What is the significance of the past in the context of rapid social change and uncertainty?

In times of rapid social change and uncertainty, the past provides a sense of stability and coherence through heritage. It offers a certain certainty and a nostalgic look back at the 'good old days', which can be comforting in the face of an unpredictable present and future.

How does the script suggest that the past is used to manipulate or influence the present?

The script suggests that the past is used to create patriotic stories, nationalist statues, and even to justify political ideologies. It is manipulated to entertain, inspire, engage, and sell products in the present.

What is the role of critical thinking in the study of history as discussed in the script?

Critical thinking plays a key role in the study of history as it allows for the analysis of multiple sides of historical events and challenges the myths and simplified narratives often presented in heritage.

Why is it important to distinguish between history and heritage?

It is important to distinguish between history and heritage to maintain an accurate understanding of the past and to prevent the misuse of historical narratives for present-day political or commercial purposes.