The History and Theory Working Group focuses on theoretical and methodological issues such as philosophy of history, historical research, interpretation, and narrative—not necessarily confined to the history of science. The working group meets monthly to discuss a colleague’s work in progress or to discuss readings that are of particular interest to participants.

Meetings are usually held at the Consortium offices in Philadelphia from 3:30 to 5:00 on second Fridays. Scholars located anywhere can also participate online.

To join this working group, click "Request group membership" at right. You will receive instructions for participating online or in person.

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Participants at Consortium activities will treat each other with respect and consideration to create a collegial, inclusive, and professional environment that is free from any form of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.

Participants will avoid any inappropriate actions or statements based on individual characteristics such as age, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, nationality, political affiliation, ability status, educational background, or any other characteristic protected by law. Disruptive or harassing behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. Harassment includes but is not limited to inappropriate or intimidating behavior and language, unwelcome jokes or comments, unwanted touching or attention, offensive images, photography without permission, and stalking.

Participants may send reports or concerns about violations of this policy to conduct@chstm.org.

Past Meetings

Darin Hayton of Haverford College introduced the Introduction and The History of Science (chp. 7) from The Descent of Ideas by Donald R. Kelley.

Darin Hayton introduced two reading by R. G. Collingwood, Historical Evidence from The Idea of History and Question and Answer from An Autobiography.

Lydia Pyne introduced Concepts of Nature, Concepts of Culture, chp. 3 of The Logic of the Cultural Sciences by Ernest Cassierer.

Joe Martin introduced What about the Natural Sciences, chp. 3 of The Social Construction of What? and How Inevitable are the Results of Successful Science? by Ian Hacking.

Darin Hayton introduced G.S. Jowett & V. O'Donnell, What is Propaganda, and How Does it Differ From Persuasion? from their book, Propaganda and Persuasion, 5th ed. (Sage, 2011), 1-48.

Kurt Macmillan introduced selections from Gender Trouble by Judith Butler.

Joana Radin introduced selections from Archive Fever by Jacques Derrida

Darin Hayton introduced Bourdieu, the Introduction and Chapter 3, "Habitus and the Space of Life Styles" from Distinction. Suggested further readings are Chapter 1, "The Aristocracy of Culture," Chapter 2, "The Social Space and Its Transformations," Chapter 3, "Culture and Politics", the Conclusion and Appendix 1 -- as well as he following article from The Nation: "Faulty Towers: The Crisis in Higher Education" which is available at http://www.thenation.com/article/160410/faulty-towers-crisis-higher-education

Darin Hayton introduced Nobert Elias: "Towards a Theory of Civilizing Processes" in The Civilizing Process, pp. 365-447.

Group Conveners

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