Choose the correct option from the options given below:

Which of the following points have been conventionally used to draw a fundamental distinction between history and science?
(a) History deals exclusively with unique while science with general phenomena
(b) History, unlike science, involves issues of religion and morality
(c) History deals with philosophical issues only
(d) History is unable to predict
(e) History is a series of lessons

Correct option is D

Option A "History deals exclusively with unique while science with general phenomena" is correct because history focuses on specific, unique events, individuals, and occurrences that are not necessarily repeatable or predictable. Science, on the other hand, is concerned with general laws and phenomena that are repeatable and universal. For example, scientific laws are consistent across different conditions and locations, while historical events (such as a particular war or political event) are unique to their time and place.
Option B "History, unlike science, involves issues of religion and morality" is also a correct distinction. History frequently deals with moral, ethical, and religious issues because it deals with the actions and decisions of individuals and societies, which are often motivated by religious or moral beliefs. Science, however, tends to avoid such subjective issues and focuses more on objective, measurable phenomena.
Option D "History is unable to predict" is another valid distinction. History is not predictive; it does not attempt to forecast future events based on past patterns in the way science can. Science aims to make predictions based on tested hypotheses and empirical evidence, whereas history is mainly concerned with interpreting and understanding past events, without the ability to predict future outcomes.

Information Booster:

Option A is correct because history, in its essence, is concerned with the unique and specific details of past events. Science, however, generalizes these details into laws or theories that apply to multiple instances. The focus on the unique nature of historical events sets it apart from science, which works towards generalization and repeatability.

Option B is also correct because history often incorporates aspects of morality and religion, especially when analyzing historical figures and societal events. These are factors that influence human behavior and decisions, something science generally does not deal with in the same way. History's engagement with cultural, religious, and ethical considerations is a significant distinction.

Option D is correct because history, by its nature, cannot predict the future. While science uses empirical evidence to make predictions about future phenomena (such as in physics, chemistry, or biology), history is more about understanding and interpreting the past without the ability to forecast what will happen next in the same way.

Additional knowledge :

Option C "History deals with philosophical issues only" is incorrect because history is not solely concerned with philosophical issues. While philosophical interpretation plays a role in historical analysis, history as a field is primarily focused on the study of past events and their impact. Science is more empirical and objective, focusing on testing hypotheses and deriving laws, which makes this option unsuitable for distinguishing history from science.

Option E "History is a series of lessons" is incorrect because while history can offer lessons, this is not a primary characteristic that sets it apart from science. Science, too, can be viewed as a "series of lessons" in understanding the natural world, as each discovery builds upon the last. The idea of "lessons" does not define the fundamental difference between the two fields.