When it is a question of ascertaining whether or not some…
![“When it is a question of ascertaining whether or not some human act has really taken place, [historians] cannot be too painstaking. If they proceed to the reasons for that act, they are content with the merest appearance, ordinarily founded upon one of those maxims of common-place psychology which…” quote by Marc Bloch](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/0d8/marc-bloch-29830_historian_when-it-is-a-question-of-ascertaining-wh_2022138.jpg)
““When it is a question of ascertaining whether or not some human act has really taken place, [historians] cannot be too painstaking. If they proceed to the reasons for that act, they are content with the merest appearance, ordinarily founded upon one of those maxims of common-place psychology which are neither more nor less true than their opposites.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Historians must be meticulous, but relying on common psychological maxims can lead to contradictory conclusions about human actions.
In simple terms: History requires careful analysis, yet common assumptions may mislead.
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions in historical analysis.
Themes
history
methodology
psychology
truth
analysis
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic research
- media reporting
- policy making
- education
Key Concepts
critical thinking
epistemology
bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify historical claims?
- When should you trust common sense?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on doubt can paralyze decision‑making.