Exploring Big Historical Data: The Historian's Macroscope

The book explores how Big Data can be used to construct cultural heritage knowledge, for research and teaching and learning. It introduces the different tools and developing approaches in Big Data for historical and humanistic scholarship, and discusses the questions and new perspectives it opens up. It is a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students, researchers, and local historical societies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2022
Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Co Pte Ltd

The availability of diverse historical data is expanding rapidly, presenting both intriguing opportunities and formidable challenges. This revised and expanded book explores innovative approaches to harnessing these data for constructing cultural heritage knowledge, conducting research, and enhancing teaching and learning experiences. It empowers humanities scholars to navigate the realm of Big Data, enabling them to comprehend the underlying algorithms of search engines, develop their own tools for processing vast amounts of information, and effectively engage with this macroscopic perspective.

Originally conceived as a live online resource with ongoing feedback from the broader digital history community, Exploring Big Historical Data pioneers new ground and sets the trajectory for future discussions. It serves as a valuable resource for undergraduate and graduate students grappling with vast data corpora, researchers venturing into these methods for the first time, as well as individuals seeking to make sense of genealogical data or digitized newspapers, and even local historical societies seeking to harness the value of digitizing their holdings.

By delving into the intricacies of Big Data, this book empowers scholars to uncover new insights, analyze patterns, and develop a deeper understanding of the past. It offers practical guidance on utilizing various digital tools and developing approaches, highlighting their potential benefits and potential pitfalls. Moreover, it fosters a broader perspective, challenging traditional narratives and opening up fresh avenues for research and inquiry.

In conclusion, Exploring Big Historical Data is a indispensable resource for anyone seeking to leverage the power of historical data in their academic pursuits. It empowers scholars to navigate the complexities of Big Data, uncover new insights, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue in digital history.

ISBN-13: 9789811243035
Edition number: Second Edition