Far-reaching microhistory: the use of microhistorical perspective in a globalized world.
In my previous work I have established a theoretical framework called ‘the Singularization of History’ by criticizing the way social, cultural and microhistorians have practiced their scholarship in the last two or three decades. I have paid particular attention to one element common to the theoreti...
| Published in: | Rethinking History Vol. 21; no. 3; pp. 312 - 342 |
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| Format: | Article |
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Taylor & Francis Ltd
Sep2017
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| Online Access: | View this record in EBSCOhost |
| Summary: | In my previous work I have established a theoretical framework called ‘the Singularization of History’ by criticizing the way social, cultural and microhistorians have practiced their scholarship in the last two or three decades. I have paid particular attention to one element common to the theoretical orientations of all microhistorians, viz. the connections between micro and macro. Microhistorians of all persuasions emphasize the importance of placing small units of research within larger contexts. I refute this principle and demonstrate its inherent contradictions. I encourage historians to cut the umbilical cord that ties them to what has been called ‘a great historical question’. The challenge of my paper will be to consider whether this research focus excludes the global perspective from historical inquiry. If that is not the case, what is the best possible approach to gain that vision? |
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