Been Quote by Goldwin Smith
“It is needless to say how great has been the influence of the doctrine of Evolution, or rather perhaps of the method of investigation to which it has given birth, upon the study of history, especially the history of institutions.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Influence of Evolution on Historical Study”, 1885
Argues that evolutionary thinking reshapes historical analysis of institutions.
In simple terms: Evolutionary ideas change how we view history.
Apply scientific methods to historical inquiry.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy analysis
- education reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does evolution inform institutional change?
- What limits exist in applying biological concepts to history?
May oversimplify complex causes.