Copper coins in a dense jungle

The Whig Interpretation of History by Herbert Butterfield
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I appreciate the sentiments of the author, Herbert Butterfield. Namely, that historians should not approach their craft preconceived ideas that they want to push. In other words, come to history with an open mind, not a set plan on what you want to prove and choosing to report facts and events that back your thesis.

The problem with this book is that his approach can eliminate the idea of learning lessons from history at all. Despite his protests, his extreme caution in determining morality in past events rings hollow in the postmodern age. In fact, his view could play right into the postmodern perspective that says truth is determined by who is in power. Add to the fact that his favorite whipping boy in the book is the Protestant Reformation and the benefits many claim as a result. I acknowledge that the benefits can be exaggerated, but the sword cuts both ways. The glories of Medieval Catholicism can be (and at times have been) exaggerated to the point of absurdity, e.g. Brad Gregory's Unintended Reformation.

Another problem is the dense prose. He is not clear in his writing and I had to plod through it. Read this book was like finding copper coins in a dense jungle. Nevertheless he makes good points about the dangers of faulty historical interpretation and what the role of the historian should be. Anyone who studies history should read it. Everyone else, feel free to pass.