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Truth and Historical Injustice: The Production of Knowledge about Past Mass Atrocities
Wahrheit und historisches Unrecht: Die Herstellung von Wissen über vergangene Massenverbrechen
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 16:29:12
Abstract
The course deals with the scientific production of knowledge about past mass atrocities. It looks at the interplay of different disciplines, methods and technological means that have been involved in this production over time. Further, it poses the question of what truth can mean in this context.
Objective
The students a) know the main features of the discussion about the truth in the reconstruction of past events; b) have an understanding of the interplay, but also the coexistence of different scientific methods and technological means in the multidisciplinary production of knowledge about past mass crimes; c) have knowledge of important processes of dealing with past mass crimes from the second half of the 20th century onwards.
Content
When discussing the truthfulness of the academic study of the past, politically and ideologically motivated mass crimes are often cited as historical events in order to substantiate the necessity of a claim to truth. In doing so, moral arguments can be made or historical truth can be asserted as a basic prerequisite for living together in a democratic society under constitutional conditions. The production of knowledge about past atrocities has always been an endeavour in which various scientific disciplines have been involved. The multidisciplinary character of the production of knowledge about mass crimes has become even more accentuated since the second half of the 20th century, not least due to the emergence of new technological possibilities. The course offers a brief introduction to the discussion about the meaning of truth about past events. It looks at how different scientific approaches - from the humanities to the natural sciences - have been involved in coming to terms with mass crimes and how they have been related to each other. It deals with the question of what role certain techniques and technologies have played in the production of knowledge about past atrocities and how this has changed over time. These techniques and technologies range from the evaluation of documents and the taking of testimonies to specialised database programs, genetic analysis or imaging techniques, to digital technologies for the procurement of information on social media and the internet or for the modelling of past events. In addressing these questions, the course looks at processes of dealing with the past from the middle of the 20th century to the 21st century in Europe, Latin America and Africa.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- BSC , DS , DR , MSC
Examination
- Type
- graded semester performance
- Digital
- The examination takes place on your own device. Installation of SEB required.
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Wahrheit und historisches Unrecht: Die Herstellung von Wissen über vergangene Massenverbrechen |
|
2 h weekly |
Offered In
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Science in Perspective (In “Science in Perspective”-courses students learn to reflect on ETH’s STEM subjects from the perspective of humanities, political and social sciences. Only the courses listed below will be recognized as "Science in Perspective" courses.)
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Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Competence (SiP courses are recommended for bachelor students after their first-year examination and for all master- or doctoral students. All SiP courses are listed in Type A. Courses listed under Type B are only recommendations for enrollment for specific departments.)
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Additional Elective Courses (These Electives may be chosen from the start of the Bachelor Study Programme.)
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Doctorate Humanities, Social and Political Sciences (More Information at: )