HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY – PROGRAMME SUBJECT IN PROGRAMMES FOR SPECIALIZATION IN GENERAL STUDIES (HIF1-01)

History makes people, and people make history. This is reflected in the way they think, act and participate in various social settings. By conjoining knowledge about history and philosophy with skills in historical thinking and philosophical reflection, the programme subject History and philosophy can give rise to new perspectives on people in history and history in people.

This programme subject shall form the basis for exploring historical conditions and events from various angles, and evaluate contradictions and conflicts from a historic and contemporary perspective. In this way, the programme subject shall lead to greater insight into and understanding of the historic and philosophical background of those ideals and values that have characterized the development of culture and society. This kind of insight can also form the basis for a sophisticated and open dialogue, as well as reconciliation across historical differences.

The programme subject History and philosophy shall give pupils training in source criticism and the ability to evaluate information, and in distinguishing between information and documentation. These skills are crucial to democracy, the rule of law and science, and to an active participation in the Information Society.

This programme subject shall help develop the individual's awareness of history, and the ability to participate in philosophical discourse and wonder about how humans have lived and behaved throughout history. In working with history and philosophy, the pupil shall develop the ability to understand and make ethical and moral choices. Identifying different modes of thought and how these have influenced human beings and society can help pupils to better understand the times in which we live. The programme subject shall form the basis for a general education, increased self-awareness, and further study. Through experience, sensitivity and critical analyses, the teaching in this programme subject shall stimulate pupils to greater knowledge, wonder, reflection and interaction.