Althistorische materialism

Althistorische Materialism is a concept developed by philosopher Reinhard Koselleck that explores how historical change is driven by underlying material conditions and social structures, rather than just ideas or individual actions. It emphasizes that the economic, technological, and social base of a society shape its development over time. This approach looks beyond events to understand the deeper, structural forces that influence history, highlighting how material realities like production, class relations, and societal needs influence historical progress and cultural changes.