Modern History is an enquiry into past human experience. It is an enquiry in which we seek to learn not only what happened, but to consider motives, causes, patterns and consequences. As an enquiry, historical study involves distinct skills in examining evidence, in reading, in evaluating evidence, and in argument. Historical study helps the development of our understanding of individuals and the society in which we live because as students of history we learn of the variety as well as the similarity of human experiences, of change as well as of continuity in societies, and of origins as well as of present situations and problems.
All of us now live in an increasingly complex, changing and multicultural society where events in the most distant parts of the world can be known as quickly as those which occur in one's own neighbourhood.
A study of Modern History will equip you with a highly valuable set of skills and a useful body of knowledge with which to tackle many of the issues and problems presented by our complex and changing world.
Modern History will help you to:
- understand the process of change over time;
- think critically and to make informed judgements on controversial matters;
- sharpen your ability to think and argue logically;
- understand the complexity of national and international events as well as give you an insight into ways of resolving complex problems;
- understand and appreciate other societies and cultures, both past and present;
- gain a better understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of your own society as well as the ways in which this culture has impinged upon others in the region;
- clarify and develop your philosophy of life through exposure to other cultures and philosophies;
- significantly develop your sense of historical perspective and the ability to place current events within a historical context.