If a lecturer, he wishes to be heard; if a writer, to be read. He always hopes for a public beyond that of the long-suffering wife. Samuel E. Morison hearhopelecturer Change image and share on social
Skepticism is an important historical tool. It is the starting point of all revision of hitherto accepted history. Samuel E. Morison accepthistoricalhistory Change image and share on social
Too rigid specialization is almost as bad for a historian's mind, and for his ultimate reputation, as too early an indulgence in broad generalization and synthesis. Samuel E. Morison badbroadearly Change image and share on social
Intellectual honesty is the quality that the public in free countries always has expected of historians; much more than that it does not expect, nor often get. Samuel E. Morison countryexpectfree Change image and share on social
The same contingencies of time and space that force a statesman or soldier to make decisions, impel the historian, though with less urgency, to make up his mind. Samuel E. Morison contingencydecisionforce Change image and share on social
Throughout this evolution from left to right, Beard always detested war. Hence his writings were slanted to show that the military side of history was insignificant or a mere reflection of economic forces. Samuel E. Morison bearddetesteconomic share on social
Every historian with professional standards speaks or writes what he believes to be true. Samuel E. Morison believehistorianprofessional Change image and share on social
I have nothing revolutionary or even novel to offer. Samuel E. Morison offerrevolutionary Change image and share on social
Courses on historical methodology are not worth the time that they take up. I shall never give one myself, and I have observed that many of my colleagues who do give such courses refrain from exemplifying their methods by writing anything. Samuel E. Morison colleaguecourseexemplify share on social
With honesty of purpose, balance, a respect for tradition, courage, and, above all, a philosophy of life, any young person who embraces the historical profession will find it rich in rewards and durable in satisfaction. Samuel E. Morison balancecouragedurable share on social
