Final answer:
In historical research, it is vital to consider the historical context and not apply modern attitudes to past events or people. Historical empathy allows historians to understand and present the past without contemporary bias.
Step-by-step explanation:
When conducting research on historical events, it is essential to consider the historical context of the time. Historical context is the environment or setting in which a particular event occurred, including the social, cultural, and intellectual climate of the time. Making sense of past events requires an understanding of the conditions under which people lived and the beliefs and knowledge they held, rather than applying modern attitudes and knowledge.
Historians strive to practice historical empathy, which means meeting the past on its own terms and without judgment. It is necessary to set aside contemporary assumptions and recognize any biases we may have. This process enables historians to present the past as clearly as possible, avoiding the imposition of modern-day attitudes or making judgments based on today's context. The ongoing exploration of diverse areas of history, such as LGBTQ+ studies, Indigenous studies, and the history of the Global South, continues to refine our understanding of historical contexts.
To answer the student's question directly: As you look for answers, make sure to complete your research with historical context in mind. You shouldn’t apply the same attitudes and knowledge of today to events or people from the past.