Abstract
Discusses the philosophy of history of the English philosopher, Robin G. Collingwood (1889-1943). Working in the Hegelian tradition, he rejected logical positivism. In his view, the task of historical research is not explanation but the deepening of human self-knowledge. The historian must "rethink past thought" and therewith recreate the rational context of past actions. Historical knowledge, so achieved, can both illuminate and promote human freedom and progress. 2 notes.