https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/L_GCBAGES218The goal of this course is to acquire (i) an understanding of the conceptual underpinnings of history as an academic discipline and the debates about it; and (ii) the ability to take a position in those debates and present arguments for it.This course provides an overview of the conceptual underpinnings of history as an academic discipline. Its focus is on concepts such as interpretation, explanation, historical insight, narrative, and objectivity. After the course students are able to debate the answer to the questions: What is history? And: What is its use?Lectures and seminars. Lectures are in English. For students Geschiedenis there will be a seminar in Dutch.Essay and written examChiel van den Akker, The Modern Idea of History and Its Value: An Introduction (Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press 2020) NB. for students History and International StudiesBa 2 students Geschiedenis; Ba 2 students History and International Studies; All interested