A Christian view on the task of the historian provides an answer to the present crisis in historical study

Abstract

Historians of today probably have to face more criticism of and attacks on their discipline than any of their predecessors. Twentieth century society and its political and intellectual leaders- including scholars in fields other than history - are seriously questioning the value of history, and doubt whether history is able to make a contribution towards the solution of contemporary problems. Many people have looked to historians for an authoritative answer on questions concerning the future of Western Civilization and the possibility of averting further catastrophic world conflicts, only to be disappointed. People of our age expect science to be of direct practical value, and students of today, who are often disillusioned with the society in which they are living and with its inability to achieve peace and prosperity for all people, want to study only subjects which can make an evident contribution toward the solution of contemporary problems and the creation of a better world.