The Philosophy of History of the British Idealists: Preliminary Observations
British idealism is usually regarded as having been, in the main, indifferent to the problems of the philosophy of history. The interest in the philosophy of history found in German, and later in Italian, idealism was allegedly not shared by the early generations of the British idealists.
At best they are regarded as unwitting precursors of things to come, some of their reflections paving the way for subsequent advances in historical thinking. The British idealists, however, were not as economical with their historical pronouncements as commonly believed. A more careful examination
of their general writings and lesser known contributions reveals a more complex picture. One of stronger historical consciousness, knowledge of the philosophical developments in history, interest in its problems, and active involvement with historical scholarship. Further study will certainly
illuminate the details of the entire character of British idealism with regard to its historical concerns.
Keywords: British idealism; Philosophy of History
Document Type: Research Article
Publication date: 01 January 2018
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