Meaning: The quote by Goldwin Smith speaks to the profound impact of the doctrine of Evolution on the study of history, particularly the history of institutions. Goldwin Smith, a prominent historian and intellectual figure in the 19th century, recognized the transformative influence of the concept of evolution and the investigative method it inspired. In order to fully comprehend the significance of this quote, it is essential to explore the historical context in which it was articulated and to delve into the ways in which the doctrine of Evolution has shaped the study of history.

During the 19th century, the doctrine of Evolution, particularly as expounded by Charles Darwin in his seminal work "On the Origin of Species" (1859), revolutionized scientific and intellectual discourse. The concept of evolution posited that all living organisms have descended from common ancestors through a gradual process of natural selection and adaptation. This paradigm-shifting idea challenged traditional religious beliefs and fundamentally altered the prevailing understanding of the natural world and human existence.

Goldwin Smith's acknowledgment of the doctrine of Evolution's impact on the study of history reflects the broader intellectual currents of his time. The influence of Darwin's evolutionary theory extended beyond the realm of natural sciences and permeated various disciplines, including history. The concept of evolution provided historians with a new lens through which to analyze and interpret historical processes, particularly in the context of societal and institutional developments.

The method of investigation inspired by the doctrine of Evolution encouraged historians to adopt a more dynamic and nuanced approach to studying historical phenomena. Rather than viewing institutions and societies as static entities, the evolutionary perspective prompted scholars to consider the ways in which they evolved and adapted over time. This approach emphasized the interconnectedness of historical developments and the continuous process of change and transformation.

In the realm of institutional history, the doctrine of Evolution prompted a reevaluation of traditional narratives and interpretations. Institutions, whether political, social, or cultural, were no longer perceived as fixed entities, but rather as dynamic constructs that evolved in response to internal and external pressures. This evolutionary framework enabled historians to trace the development of institutions, discern patterns of change and continuity, and understand the underlying forces driving their evolution.

Moreover, the influence of the doctrine of Evolution on the study of history extended to the exploration of broader historical themes such as progress, social change, and the interplay of continuity and innovation. The evolutionary perspective challenged deterministic views of history and emphasized the contingent nature of historical developments, highlighting the role of adaptation, competition, and the survival of the fittest in shaping human societies and their institutions.

Goldwin Smith's recognition of the doctrine of Evolution's impact on the study of history underscores the enduring legacy of this transformative idea. The method of investigation inspired by evolutionary theory has enriched historical scholarship by fostering a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of institutions and societal structures. By embracing the evolutionary perspective, historians have been able to unravel the complex interplay of continuity and change that defines the course of human history.

In conclusion, Goldwin Smith's acknowledgment of the influence of the doctrine of Evolution on the study of history reflects the profound impact of this paradigm-shifting concept on historical scholarship. The evolutionary perspective has reshaped the way historians approach the study of institutions and societal developments, emphasizing the dynamic and adaptive nature of historical processes. By embracing the method of investigation inspired by the doctrine of Evolution, historians have gained valuable insights into the complex interplay of continuity and change that characterizes the history of institutions.