Historical facts are always subject to interpretation from "summary" of What is History? by E. H. Carr
When we consider the concept that historical facts are always subject to interpretation, we must acknowledge that history is not a static, unchanging entity. Instead, it is a dynamic and evolving field shaped by the perspectives and biases of those who study it. As E. H. Carr suggests, historical facts are like fish swimming in a vast ocean of interpretation. Each historian casts their net, selecting certain facts while letting others slip through the holes. This process of selection is influenced by a variety of factors, including personal beliefs, cultural background, and political ideology. Furthermore, Carr argues that historians are not merely passive observers of the past; they are active participants in shaping historical narratives. In other words, historians do not simply uncover facts and present them to the reader in a straightforward manner. Instead, they interpret these facts through a particular lens, weaving them into a larger narrative that reflects their own biases and assumptions. This interpretive aspect of history is what gives the field its richness and complexity. Moreover, Carr emphasizes that historical facts are not self-evident truths waiting to be discovered. Rather, they are constructed through a process of investigation and analysis. This process involves sifting through a wide range of sources, evaluating their reliability, and piecing together a coherent story. Inevitably, this process involves making choices about which facts to include and which to omit, as well as how to interpret and contextualize those facts within a larger framework. In light of these considerations, it becomes clear that historical facts are not fixed and immutable. Instead, they are malleable and open to interpretation. Different historians may arrive at different conclusions based on the same set of facts, depending on their perspective and approach. This does not mean that history is a purely subjective field with no basis in reality. Rather, it underscores the fact that historical knowledge is always provisional and contingent on the evidence available and the methods used to interpret it.- The concept that historical facts are always subject to interpretation highlights the complexity and nuance of the historical discipline. By recognizing the role of interpretation in shaping our understanding of the past, we can better appreciate the diversity of perspectives that enrich our knowledge of history.
