Homo historicus: History as psychological science

Behav Brain Sci. 2025 Jan 2:47:e188. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X24000682.

Abstract

Historical myths are indeed a mystery in need of explanation, and we elaborate on the present adaptationist account. However, the same analysis can also be applied to motivations to produce and consume history in general: That humans produce and consume history is also a mystery in need of psychological explanation. An adaptationist psychological science of history is needed.

Publication types

  • Historical Article

MeSH terms

  • History*
  • Humans
  • Motivation
  • Psychology / history