Modes of historical attention: wonder, curiosity, fascination

Abstract

ABSTRACT Among non-verbal motivating aspects of knowledge production, the modes of attention we name wonder, curiosity and fascination stand out. These different modes of attention are sometimes closely intertwined but can still be fruitfully analyzed as three distinct ways in which we encounter and approach objects that attract us or that we want to gain insight into. Wonder, curiosity and fascination will initiate different questions and direct toward various conclusions such as contemplation, causality and reminding. Awareness of which mode of attention one is performing when doing historical work will influence the kind of history one ultimately presents.