Meaning: The quote by Samuel Morison, an American historian, provides insight into the nature of historical methodology. Morison, who was known for his works on maritime history and his role as a historian for the United States Navy, emphasizes the importance of common sense in historical research. His assertion that historical methodology is a product of common sense applied to circumstances reflects the idea that historical inquiry should be rooted in rational and practical approaches. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is necessary to explore the concept of historical methodology and its application in the field of history.

Historical methodology refers to the systematic approach and techniques used by historians to investigate and analyze the past. It encompasses the methods, theories, and principles that guide historical research and the interpretation of historical events and sources. At its core, historical methodology seeks to establish reliable and valid conclusions about the past based on evidence and critical analysis. This involves the use of various sources such as documents, artifacts, oral histories, and other forms of evidence to construct a coherent and accurate account of historical events and developments.

Morison's assertion that historical methodology is a product of common sense applied to circumstances suggests that historians should approach their work with a practical and logical mindset. Common sense, in this context, implies the use of sound judgment, reason, and logical thinking in the process of historical inquiry. Historians are expected to apply their common sense to the circumstances they are investigating, taking into account the context, complexities, and nuances of the historical events and sources they are examining.

The quote also implies that historical methodology is not a rigid or dogmatic set of rules, but rather a flexible and adaptable framework that responds to the specific circumstances of each historical inquiry. This aligns with the idea that historical research is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, but rather a dynamic and evolving process that requires historians to be responsive to the unique challenges and complexities of each historical investigation.

Furthermore, Morison's emphasis on common sense in historical methodology underscores the importance of approaching historical research with a critical and discerning mindset. Historians are expected to critically evaluate the reliability and validity of their sources, consider alternative interpretations, and construct well-supported arguments based on the available evidence. This requires the application of common sense in assessing the plausibility and coherence of historical narratives and the ability to discern between factual information and speculation or bias.

In contemporary historical scholarship, the application of historical methodology is informed by a range of theoretical approaches and interdisciplinary perspectives. Historians draw on methods from fields such as anthropology, sociology, literary theory, and cultural studies to enrich their understanding of the past and to address the complexities of historical interpretation. The use of common sense as advocated by Morison can be seen as a foundational principle that underpins the rigorous and critical approach to historical research, regardless of the specific theoretical or methodological framework employed.

In conclusion, Samuel Morison's quote provides valuable insight into the nature of historical methodology and the approach that historians should take in their research. By emphasizing the role of common sense applied to circumstances, Morison highlights the importance of practical and rational thinking in historical inquiry. This perspective underscores the dynamic and critical nature of historical methodology, emphasizing the need for historians to approach their work with a discerning mindset and a responsiveness to the unique challenges and complexities of each historical investigation. Ultimately, Morison's quote serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles that guide historical research and the ongoing pursuit of understanding the past.