Contradictions of Theory of Historiography Within Michel Foucault’s Sceptical Thought

Abstract

The paper aims to parallel Foucault’s theory with some fundamental problems in history and theory of historiography. Foucault’s approach can be of great use in this context, as it contradicts both historical universals and the instrumentalisation of historiography. the focal point of the paper lies in the question whether historiography should be merely the truth about the past or should also contain advice and recommendations for the present. The analysis brings us to an extremely sceptical method of historiography, which in practice implies doubt and constant self-questioning of the very foundations of historiography.