Historical methodology: the perspective of a professionally trained historian turned marketer

Abstract

Purpose The paper's aim is to explain historical methodology in a marketing context. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on the author's personal experience, being trained in the history method and using the historical method. Findings An awareness of time contexts and complex change is essential, so too is an appreciation of primary sources (as defined by historians). Reading the present into the past (anachronism) is to be avoided, and the interpretation and explanation of events are essential to good history. Originality/value The paper represents the author's own personal experience.