A Philosophical History of Documentary, 18951959

The book delves into thirty distinct definitions of "documentary" from 1895 to 1959, examining their unique linguistic nuances and historical contexts. Each chapter focuses on one definition, revealing its philosophical underpinnings and ethical implications. Dan Geva argues that these definitions collectively represent the evolving ethical framework of documentary, suggesting that understanding this philosophical history is essential for grasping its true nature. The work invites readers to reflect on the documentary's self-defining ethics throughout its development.