What is History of Ideas?
Eriksen, Trond Berg: Hva er idéhistorie?"History of ideas requires tightrope walkers. And the security net has huge meshes."
"I have written to stimulate your interest in what history of ideas is all about. This book is an invitation."
What is history of ideas; a discipline or an impertinence? There are no limits to what topics a historian of ideas can work with, or to what methods he can apply. In a time when scientific knowledge is strongly specialised, the historian of ideas is so bold as to paint sketchy images of a whole. This book provides a passionate and well-written introduction to a field that is difficult to grasp. The author discusses the key questions in the history of ideas, reveals the roots of today’s common practice, and asks what the purpose of this special field really is.
"Berg Eriksen's text is sparkling with energy and engagement"
(Jeanette Sky, Prosa)
First published: 2003, Universitsforlaget
Trond Berg Eriksen: Biography and bibliography
