Reflecting on BSSS History rationale

The BSSS's rationale for the study of History in years 11 and 12 makes perfect sense to me. I like that emphasis is placed on the role of history in shaping an individual's sense of where they fit in the world, as well as shaping their understanding of cultural heritages and why values and beliefs vary from one culture to another.

I'm also pleased to see that the rationale calls attention to the fallibility of history, its flexibility of interpretation and that various theoretical approaches to history, be they feminist history, Marxist, post-colonial, marginalised, indigenous and so on, can both illuminate history from another angle and problematise some elements of history.

The rationale compares quite closely with my own reason for teaching history. I've always found it an interesting topic and one that sheds light on the modern world and how we live today. I like that looking at the world through an historians' eyes helps us to be more accepting of different cultures, more tolerant, and yet at the same time more critical and analytical. The old adage rings true: "Those who forget history are doomed to repeat it."