The Horizon of History Moved by Modernity

After and Beyond Koselleck

Jörn Rüsen

Volume 60, Number 4 (2021)

This article first describes Reinhart Koselleck’s interpretation of the modernity of historical thought and then discusses the specific meaning-orientation of this thought. This description is done in a perspective that follows the question of whether modernity is only an epoch in Western history or covers general, universal history. Then, it discusses three problem areas of this conception of modernity: (1) whether there is an alternative to Koselleck’s model, (2) whether this model applies only to Western historical thought, and (3) what problems it raises. Afterward, it offers suggestions for how Koselleck’s list of “counter-concepts” can be expanded to include further provisions. Finally, it identifies and discusses the criteria of meaning that are decisive for the expanded conception of basic historical-anthropological concepts.

Image: by Dave Drost (24 December 2019)