Honest History: Using and abusing history

Honest History

‘Using and abusing history’, Honest History e-Newsletter No. 3, August 2013

The use and misuse or abuse of history will be a strong theme of Honest History. We condemn the abuse of history but we vigorously support its honest use to support policy options.

‘Honest history is the weapon of freedom’, allegedly said Arthur Schlesinger, Jr. (One could compare this aphorism with American policy since 1990.) Schlesinger’s fellow dweller in John Kennedy’s Camelot, Richard E Neustadt, co-authored Thinking in Time: The Uses of History for Decision Makers. Richard Nixon (according to Henry Kissinger) wandered the White House at night, conversing with the portraits of his predecessors, seeking tips. Read more…