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Quote by Robin G. Collingwood

“To the scientist, nature is always and merely a 'phenomenon,' not in the sense of being defective in reality, but in the sense of being a spectacle presented to his intelligent observation; whereas the events of history are never mere phenomena, never mere spectacles for contemplation, but things which the historian looks, not at, but through, to discern the thought within them.”

Quote by Robin G. Collingwood

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Robin G. Collingwood
Robin G. Collingwood

Robin G. Collingwood (February 22, 1889 – January 9, 1943) was a British philosopher, historian, and archaeologist, best known for his contributions to the philosophy of history, aesthetics, and metaphysics. Born in Lancashire, England, he was influenced by his father, an artist and archaeologist. Collingwood studied and taught at Oxford University, where he became the Waynflete Professor of Metaphysical Philosophy. His major works include The Idea of History, The Principles of Art, and An Essay on Metaphysics. He argued that all history is the history of thought, emphasizing the historian's role in re-enacting past ideas. His ideas have had a lasting impact on Western philosophy and historiography. more

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