The Hope of History: Paul Ricoeur’s Philosophy on the Uses and Abuses of History

• Published in: Богословські роздуми: Східноєвропейський журнал богословʼя Vol. 23; no. 1; pp. 11 - 25
• Main Author: Stiver, Dan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Eastern European Instute of Theology 26.05.2025
• Subjects: history; ideology; memory; Paul Ricoeur’s philosophy
• ISSN: 2789-1569; 2789-1577
• DOI: 10.29357/2789-1577.2025.23.1.1

This article investigates Paul Ricoeur’s thought on the interrelations between history, memory, and ideology, with a particular focus on the contemporary challenges of historical interpretation. It draws on Ricoeur’s hermeneutical methodology to argue that history is not a neutral or objective recounting of the past but is inevitably shaped by present perspectives and ideological forces. Central to this inquiry is the role of memory—both personal and collective—in constructing identity and informing ideological narratives, which may function either as instruments of emancipation or mechanisms of domination. The study offers a critical analysis of the ideological distortions that can arise from historical narratives, especially within contexts of political power. Furthermore, it proposes that a Christian hermeneutic contributes valuable insights into the ethical dimensions of historical engagement, particularly through the lenses of truth, justice, and reconciliation. The article ultimately advocates for a redemptive and dialogical approach to history, one that affirms the potential of narrative identity and collective memory to serve as agents of healing and social transformation in fragmented societies.