Philosophy of History - Southeastern Louisiana University



Philosophy of History Midterm Study Sheet – Midterm, March 8, 2010

Short answer questions. The following is a list of many of the key terms and concepts we have discussed so far in class. Use this list to prepare for the short answer section of the midterm. There will be 10 short answer questions on the exam, of which you are to answer 8 (5 points each).

Bread-and-butter scholar 3 types of history

Universal history spirit

Lessons from new world freedom

4 problems in doing history cunning of reason

imperishable chain State

historian’s task greek sport

inner causal nexus reformation

teleological history unhistorical/historical

nomothetic/idiographic will to power

structural forms antiquarian, monumental, critical

strong personalities

Essay question. Write an essay on one of the following two (60 points):

1. An important issue in the philosophy of history is the debate concerning the contingency of historical events. Some argue that no event in history is accidental, that everything happens of necessity; others take issue with this position. By focusing on the writers we have discussed in class, detail the arguments that are made for both sides of this debate. Which side, if any, do you find makes the most compelling argument? Explain.

2. Using Hegel to interpret the history of western cultures, one can claim that there is a pendulum shift from individual to universal-centered periods of history. Discuss some of these periods and the historical evidence Hegel and others might present to make this case. Hegel then argues that the oscillation between individual and universal finally ends with the state as that which embraces both the universal and the individual. Explain how Hegel believes the State does this.

3. Nietzsche is in many ways an anti-Hegelian philosopher, though in other respects one could argue that there are some similarities between them. Discuss Hegel briefly in order to set up how Nietzsche is both similar to and yet different from Hegel. Be sure to bring in the arguments and distinctions Hegel and Nietzsche make in setting forth your claims.

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