Arnold Toynbee

Arnold J. Toynbee (1889–1975) was one of the most influential historians of the 20th century and a key inspiration behind the founding of the International Society for the Comparative Study of Civilizations. He is best known for his monumental A Study of History, in which he examined more than twenty civilizations through a comparative and systematic lens. His concept of “challenge and response” remains one of the foundational frameworks in civilizational analysis.

Place in the ISCSC

Toynbee’s grand vision of world history helped shape the intellectual identity of the ISCSC from its earliest days. His comparative approach and global perspective continue to inform the Society’s mission and scholarly work.