Italian philosopher. InPrincipi di una scienza nuova d'intorno alla comune natura delle nazioni (Principles of a New Science of the Common Nature of Nations) (1725) Vico argued that study of the cycles exhibited in human history rests on a foundation and methodology (distinct from that pursued by the natural sciences) under which the genius of each age must be understood in its own terms alone. This position was a significant influence on the work ofHegel,Marx, and Croce.

Taken from:
http://www.philosophypages.com/dy/v9.htm#vico
Also see:
http://www.lcc.gatech.edu/gallery/rhetoric/figures/vico.html
http://www.vicoinstitute.org/