External and Internal Criticism Objectives

What is considered intellectual theft?

What is the purpose of making an outline in research writing?

Why is it important to provide citations for your data sources?

What should you do if an informant gives you information 'off the record'?

Which section of a research report contains an explanation of the data provided?

What is the purpose of including an appendix and glossary in research writing?

In research writing, what is meant by 'conclusions and recommendations'?

Why are endnotes and footnotes usually demanded in academic research?

What could help reconcile conflicting dates of events in a research report?

What should researchers do to inform their sources about using materials or testimonies provided?

Criticism Overview

Criticism involves judging the merits of documents, art, and literary works, evaluating quality through analysis.
Key forms include historical criticism, literary criticism, and textual criticism, each focusing on authenticity and context.

External Criticism

Centers on the genuineness, authenticity, and trustworthiness of documents.
Essential guide questions include:
- Who authored the document and their intent?
- Accuracy of the document's date and events it describes.
- Location of origin and context of writing.
- Existence of alternative forms or versions of the document.

Internal Criticism

Focuses on assessing the accuracy and truthfulness of the document's content.
Investigates the author's credibility through guide questions such as:
- The author's presence during events described.
- Competency and emotional involvement of the author.
- Potential biases or vested interests influencing the narrative.

Objectives of Criticism

Aims to identify historical truths and distinguish them from false claims.
Involves both external examination for authenticity and internal evaluation for accuracy.

Characteristics of a Good Historical Account

Must be an original work, avoiding repetitive recycling of historical facts.
Should address significant historical themes, including change and progression.
Needed to demonstrate academic rigor and adhere to standard writing conventions.

Test your ability to conduct external and internal criticisms in historical analysis. Understand how different methods of criticism contribute to identifying historical truth and avoiding false claims.