An Introduction to the Philosophy of History

This book uncovers the wealth of philosophical problems that history presents, and encourages further thought on how these issues grow out of historical questions. Its focus on the convergence of history, philosophy and social science makes it ideal for use on undergraduate courses in philosophy of history and philosophy of social science.Beginning with an energetic and lucid discussion covering traditional issues such as epistemology and metaphysics, the author continues to explore in more detail the current debates surrounding philosophical issues of concern to both history and the social sciences. Tackling a wide range of topics such as truth, objectivity, explanation, communication and narrative, gender, deconstruction and postmodernism, the book affords students in philosophy and social science departments a deeper and wider perspective on the philosophical problems within their areas of study.

Michael Stanford held the position of Senior Lecturer in History at the University of the West of England until his retirement in 1983. He co-edits the journal Cogito and is the author of The Nature of Historical Knowledge (1986) and a Companion of the Study of History (1994).