I heard this word used the other day about interpreting historical events with contemporary standards, when talking about Robert E. Lee. I hadn't heard it before, but I love the concept. Have you seen it before?
What standard should we then use to examine the actions of historical figures? Should we ignore depredations because they were considered normal at the time, which are considered heinous to us?
Yes, agreed, arnie. Who, though, do you think might be in the gray area?
Just today I was watching a movie that said that FDR would never have been elected today because of his disability. Back then, the presidents weren't on television. I think, unfortunately, they are right. 'Tis a pity.
Who, though, do you think might be in the gray area?
Almost everyone who lived more than a couple of generations ago. Until the end of the 20th century most people felt it was quite OK use corporal punishment on children. Many (white) people were unthinkingly racist until the 1960s or so. During the 18th and 19th centuries slave owning was unexceptionable ...
Build a man a fire and he's warm for a day. Set a man on fire and he's warm for the rest of his life.