Final answer:
Catastrophism is the principle that historical events occurred suddenly via different mechanisms than those in the present, contrasting with uniformitarianism. Historians study causation to understand the forces that impacted history, and scientific thought has evolved to account for this understanding of cause and effect.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle that events in the past occurred suddenly and were caused by mechanisms different from those operating in the present is called catastrophism. This principle contradicts the concept of uniformitarianism, which suggests that the same natural laws and processes that operate in the universe now have always operated in the universe in the past and apply everywhere in the cosmos. The concept of catastrophism has been widely debated, with significant evidence supporting that many processes observed today have indeed been constant throughout geological time. However, there have been instances in Earth's history, such as mass extinctions and rapid climate changes, where catastrophic events have had a significant impact on the Earth's geology and biological life.
Historians who study causation strive to understand the forces that shape history, shedding light on both individual and societal changes. By examining these forces, historians can interpret past events in a way that resonates with our shared history and provides insight into human nature and societal evolution.
Throughout history, scientific thought has evolved from natural philosophy to modern physics, with key figures such as Galileo, Newton, and Einstein playing critical roles. This shift reflects a deeper understanding of observation, cause, and effect, and the uniform processes that govern the natural world. However, the recognition of past and present philosophy connections reminds us that our understanding of the world can continue to change and develop.