e first condition to be observed； that
we should faithfully adopt all that is historical。 But in such general expressions themselves； as
“faithfully” and “adopt；” lies the ambiguity。 Even the ordinary； the “impartial” historiographer；
who believes and professes that he maintains a simply receptive attitude； surrendering himself only
to the data supplied him — is by no means passive as regards the exercise of his thinking powers。
He brings his categories with him； and sees the phenomena presented to his mental vision；
exclusively through these media。 And； especially in all that pretends to the name of science； it is
indispensable that Reason should not sleep — that reflection should be in full play。 To him who
looks upon the world rationally； the world in its turn； presents a rational aspect。 The relation is
mutual。 But the various exercises of reflection — the different points of view — the modes of
deciding the simple question of the relative importance of events （the first category that occupies
the attention of the historian）； do not belong to this place。
§ 14
I will only mention two phases and points of view that concern the generally diffused conviction
that Reason has ruled； and is still ruling in the world； and consequently in the world's history；
because they give us； at the same time； an opportunity for more closely investigating the question
that presents the greatest difficulty； and for indicating a branch of the subject； which will have to be
enlarged on in the sequel。
I。 Reason Governs the World
§ 15
One of these points is； that passage in history； which informs us that the Greek Anaxagoras was
the first to enunc