Diarmaid MacCulloch: How to Write Rigorously Well | How I Write

The podcast explores the role of a historian in society and the core principles that guide their work. Diarmaid MacCulloch, a professor at Oxford and history expert, argues that historians serve as guardians of sanity, defending against lies and societal madness by presenting a balanced view of the past. He emphasizes the importance of skepticism and sympathy in historical analysis, urging historians to understand the agendas and humanity of historical figures. MacCulloch also highlights the significance of "sense of place" in understanding historical events, illustrating how experiencing locations firsthand can profoundly impact the narrative. He touches on the necessity of recognizing biases and the value of diverse perspectives in uncovering historical truths, advocating for a nuanced approach that acknowledges the complexities and irrationalities of the past.