MIESTO HISTORICKEJ VEDY V DNEŠNEJ SPOLOČNOSTI

The aim of the following contribution is to approach and discuss the J. Morsel´s work, which provoked lively discussion in French historical circles immediately after its publication in the 2007. In his innovative essay, spread by the modern means of the Internet, Morsel attempts to answer a question, which is occupying an ever larger group of historians: that of the meaning, aims and roles of the historical science in today's society. In comparison with the varying theories of Guerreau, Le Goff, Noiriel and other historians, the author uncovers individual layers of problems, which have piled up around historiography and the epistemology of the historical science in recent years. In connection with the changes in today's crisis afflicted society, he seeks a more acceptable alternative for the appropriate fullfilment of the essence of historical research. He attempts to reserve a place for the historian as a defender and guardian of the social values acquired through the centuries, and assigns him the role of mediator in communication with the broad lay public, often swamped by superficial and consumerist information.