HIST 601 - Approaches to History

This course examines different approaches to the discipline of history. Readings, assignments, and discussions will explore historical practices as a form of knowledge production. We will consider topics such as how humans have derived meaning from the past, why narratives of progress are enticing, what it means to think like a historian, and the limits of historical methodologies. In addition to philosophical approaches to historical knowledge and sources, we will examine professional expectations in the discipline. This includes ethical standards as well as obligations and responsibilities of public engagement.  Every Spring Semester