The Skepticism of Historians

Historians become skeptical through data in the same way that psychologists get skeptical through empathy and philosophers through logic - so it’s said. 

Staring into the "void" of history opens the door to a chamber of darkness, but also gives us a good candle to see things like they are or were. 

The sugar-coating is gone and the analytical coldness of detachment arrives, opening our eyes to the transience of life and the futility of forcing outcomes.

This may sound pessimistic to a person driven by modern ambitions. Also may cause chills to modern positivist trends, but at the same time can help in our day to day travel through the messy labyrinth of human existence. 

And yet, we need optimism for survival and reproduction because deep historical awareness threatens the psychological illusions that make life workable.

​To be healthy is to be unaware of yourself.

Emil Cioran