Not only the studying and writing of history but also the honoring of it both represent affirmations of a certain defiant faith - a desperate, unreasoning faith, if you will - but faith nevertheless in the endurance of this threatened world - faith in the total essentiality of historical continuity.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Kennan sees studying and honoring history as a defiant act of faith in the endurance of human continuity despite threats.
- In plain terms
- Studying and honoring history is a brave act of faith in the world's survival.
- What can you take from it?
- Honor history to strengthen faith in continuity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What gives you faith in continuity?
- How should we honor the past?
Another view
History can be painful or inaccurate requiring critical handling.
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