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Meeting RNW Theory of History – Lecture Carlo Ierna (VU): ‘History can only be understood backwards’ – 18 October 2024

Date and time: Friday 18 October 2024, 15:00-17:00 (followed by drinks)

Speaker: Carlo Ierna (VU Amsterdam)

Moderator: Maria Grever (EUR)

Location: Utrecht University, Academiegebouw, Belle van Zuylenzaal

Registration: huizinga@uu.nl

History can only be understood backwards
Since 2020 I have been teaching history of philosophy using a reverse chronological method. The goal is a better understanding of the history of philosophy by avoiding widespread biases through a radical change of perspective. By reversing the chronological order, the focus moves to how historical authors have engaged with their predecessors, just as we engage with them. This method is neither a form of canceling, by excluding traditional figures, nor of historical vengeance, by redeeming previous canceling. It rather enacts a radical change of perspective, allowing us to see familiar landmarks against a new background. In this way, we can also more easily introduce authors that have not had a large influence, but offer an interesting reception of previous authors, leading to a more balanced and inclusive view on the history of philosophy.