Current Problems of Historical Theory

Abstract

The purpose of this round table is to enable the specialists gathered here to discuss freely their opinions on current problems in the theory and methodology of historical research. This is not our first attempt along these lines (the last was held on 29 October 1991; see Voprosy istorii, 1992, nos. 8-9). However, time in its onward rush is drawing historiography, too, into its vortex: traditional conceptions and assessments are dying, methodological paradigms that only recently seemed unshakable have fallen apart, and theories of the historical process that used to be rejected as unsound now appear in a new light. One feels an urgent need to return periodically to the discussion and interpretation of many theoretical-methodological problems that only yesterday were considered completely resolved.