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Answers Quote by W. H. Auden

“History is, strictly speaking, the study of questions; the study of answers belongs to anthropology and sociology.” quote by W. H. Auden
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“History is, strictly speaking, the study of questions; the study of answers belongs to anthropology and sociology.”

W. H. Auden

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Study of History, 1945

History asks questions; answers are found in anthropology and sociology.

In simple terms: History asks questions; answers lie in anthropology and sociology.

Key Takeaway

Explore human behavior to understand history.

Themes

history questions answers

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

academic reflective

When to use this quote

  • research
  • education
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

anthropology sociology methodology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What questions does history leave unanswered?
  • How do social sciences complement historical inquiry?
A Different Perspective

Answers may be contested across disciplines.

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