Scientific History

This scholarly work examines how historians have repeatedly turned to scientific methods and frameworks to reshape their discipline, from early statistical approaches to contemporary digital humanities and big history movements. Aronova traces several distinct waves of scientific influence on historical practice, revealing how each generation reinterpreted what counted as legitimate evidence and methodology. The book demonstrates that the current fascination with genetics and neuroscience represents just the latest chapter in a long-standing disciplinary conversation. Through careful archival research, Aronova shows how these scientific engagements have fundamentally altered historians' understanding of causality, scale, and objectivity.

What makes this study particularly valuable is its demonstration that today's debates about interdisciplinary methodology have deep historical roots, challenging the notion that scientific history is merely a contemporary trend. Academic historians and graduate students will find the detailed case studies illuminating, while scholars in science studies will appreciate the nuanced analysis of how scientific authority gets translated across disciplinary boundaries. The book ultimately provides essential context for anyone trying to understand the evolving relationship between humanistic inquiry and scientific practice, making it particularly relevant as universities increasingly emphasize STEM-humanities collaboration.