Philosophy of History



Philosophy of History (Philosophy 315) Midterm Study Sheet – Midterm, September 25, 2018Short 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 scholarPhilosophy and religionUniversal historyReason in HistoryLessons from new worldFreedom of Spirit4 problems in doing historyend of historyimperishable chainSelf-consciousnessinner causal nexusChinese stagnationHistorian’s two tasksOriental Worldhistorian’s primary taskChina/India – differences and similaritiesinner causal nexusTrue faith (for Hegel)teleological historyPersians3 types of historyGreek tragedy, democracy, sportGerman HeartProblems with Greek spiritCharlemagneFeudalismReformationGerman StateEssay question. Two of the following three will be on the midterm. You are to write an essay on one of those two (60 points):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 those 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.In a number of ways, Hegel’s understanding of history develops themes that were also found in the writings of Schiller and Humboldt. In this essay highlight the significant places where Hegel’s philosophy of history develops points that were found in Schiller’s and Humboldt’s texts. How does Hegel’s approach differ? Elaborate. How, finally, might one find a Hegelian understanding of history expressed within contemporary discourse and society?Hegel argues that the Persians were the first historical people. What happened in the case of the Persians that led Hegel to this claim? What arguments does he offer to support his philosophy of history, and how does the transition to the Greeks reflect this philosophy? What are some contemporary example where one may be seen to be implicitly using Hegel’s philosophy of history to interpret events? Be specific and elaborate upon your example. ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download