Stephen Kotkin: Proving 'Unprecedented' Demands Deep Historical Mastery

Stephen Kotkin, a distinguished Senior Fellow at the Hoover Institution, recently underscored the critical need for comprehensive historical understanding when asserting that an event is "unprecedented." Speaking during the "How Historians Work" series on July 22, 2025, Kotkin emphasized that the burden of proof rests squarely on those making such claims to demonstrate a thorough understanding of past events. His remarks highlight the Hoover History Lab's commitment to rigorous historical analysis informing contemporary discourse.

According to the Hoover Institution's social media announcement, Kotkin "explains that using the word 'unprecedented' demands evidence and says the burden is to master prior history to support one's claims." During his conversation with fellow research fellow Dan Wang, Kotkin elaborated, asserting that "unprecedented is an award you have to give out very sparingly." This perspective challenges the casual use of the term, advocating for a more disciplined approach to historical comparison and analysis.

The "How Historians Work" series, a key initiative of the Hoover History Lab, aims to delve into the methodology and relevance of historical scholarship. The Lab, directed by Kotkin, focuses on leveraging historical insights to inform public policy and cultivate the next generation of scholars. This program underscores the institution's broader mission to apply academic rigor to contemporary global challenges.

Kotkin is widely recognized for his extensive work on Russia and the Soviet Union, including his multi-volume biography of Joseph Stalin. His co-conversationalist, Dan Wang, is a research fellow at the Hoover Institution specializing in China's technological advancements. Their dialogue exemplifies the Hoover Institution's dedication to fostering interdisciplinary discussions that bridge historical context with current geopolitical and societal trends, promoting a more informed public discourse.