For Collingwood, history was a form of reconstructive inquiry, where historians actively participate in understanding the past by empathizing with historical actors. He distinguished between understanding and explanation, emphasizing the former as crucial for capturing the essence of historical events.Understanding versus Explanation in Historical Context.Collingwood's approach focused on understanding the logic and motivations behind historical actions, rather than simply explaining them through external factors. He believed that historical understanding requires entering into the mental world of the past to grasp its complexities.Collingwood's Criticism of Absolute Truth and Objectivity.Collingwood challenged the notion of absolute truth and objectivity in historical knowledge, highlighting its subjective nature. He critiqued the idea of an objective reality, arguing that historical interpretations are shaped by individual perspectives and contexts.Critique of the Idea of Objective Reality.Collingwood's skepticism towards objective reality stemmed from his belief that historical knowledge is inherently subjective, influenced by the historian's interpretations and biases. He emphasized the importance of recognizing these subjectivities in historical analysis.Impact on Philosophy of History.R.G. Collingwood's criticism has made waves in the realm of philosophy of history, challenging traditional views of historical inquiry. By emphasizing the importance of understanding the past from within its context, Collingwood has urged historians to delve deeper into the motivations and thoughts of historical actors rather than just focusing on external facts.Relevance to Postmodern Thought.Collingwood's ideas have also found resonance in postmodern thought, particularly in questioning objective truths and highlighting the role of interpretation in historical understanding. His emphasis on the subjectivity of historical interpretation aligns with postmodern skepticism towards grand narratives and universal certainties.