IJASOS- International E-journal of Advances in Social Sciences

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is
to present a theoretical approach and analysis of the term "history".
The study of history is of crucial importance for the transmission of culture
and national values. Modern states should exploit the study of history, since
only by acquiring historical consciousness will they be able to formulate new
policies to promote and preserve their culture. Knowledge of the past leads to
a better understanding of the facts of the present; therefore, it also enables a
more accurate, efficient and – hopefully - globally beneficial planning of the
future.

Nowadays, the purpose of history is
to assist us in a two-fold way in order to: (i) better understand the present
and deal with it responsibly through the knowledge and study of the past as
well as (ii) to take the necessary initiatives and action for creating and
preparing a better future. One could, therefore, claim that the main purpose of
history is rather didactic than cognitive. Careful study of history contributes
to a proper understanding of the present, resulting to states able to exploit
their past and use it as a guide for shaping their national strategy and
maximizing their present and future benefits in the contemporary global
setting.