Are there historical lessons across time and space? The ethics of ‘never again’ in European history teaching

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper explores the intersection of historical remembrance and the ethical imperative of ‘never again’ in shaping a peaceful future, drawing on the context of Council of Europe’s commitment to history education. It believes in the pivotal role of understanding the past for fostering democratic values. However, the paper critically examines the limitations of the widely embraced ‘never again’ ethic, transcending mere historical knowledge. The author, working in a post-conflict setting, discusses the complexities of transforming this ethic into an empirical tool. By delving into examples such as refugee camps during the 2015 crisis and ICE detention camps, the paper highlights the challenges of applying ‘never again’ in new political and social realities. While acknowledging the limitations of relying solely on history education, the paper suggests the need for multidisciplinary approaches and emphasizes competencies beyond historical thinking in shaping a promising future. The conclusion calls for engagement across sectors and broader knowledge incorporation in teacher training programs. Overall, the paper navigates the intricate relationship between historical awareness, ethical imperatives, and the practical challenges of preventing atrocities in the contemporary world.