The Higher Usefulness of Science, and Other Essays

by William Emerson Ritter

Overview

"The Higher Usefulness of Science, and Other Essays" is a collection of thought-provoking essays by William Emerson Ritter, originally published in 1918. Ritter, a prominent biologist and philosopher, explores the profound implications of scientific advancements for humanity and society. These essays delve into topics such as the relationship between science and human progress, the role of scientific research in addressing societal challenges, and the philosophical underpinnings of scientific inquiry.

Ritter's work reflects the intellectual climate of the early 20th century, a period marked by rapid scientific progress and evolving perspectives on the relationship between science and human values. This collection offers insights into the historical development of scientific thought and its enduring relevance to contemporary discussions about the ethical and social implications of science. Readers interested in the history and philosophy of science will find this book a valuable resource.

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Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781023605625
Publisher:	Hutson Street Press
Publication date:	05/22/2025
Pages:	148
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.32(d)

Read an Excerpt

these hypotheses as touch human life injuriously that moral culpability can be imputed to science. But in such cases this imputation would be perfectly natural and just, since as already pointed out science is only one among a considerable list of man's major interests, the harmonious interaction among which, and their working to a common end, is the very essence of good morals. II. How Science May Meet Its Moral Obligations The main task of this paper is that of trying to bring into clear light what there is within the body of science itself that may be made to work positively and mightily for the health and strength and growth of the whole of human life under civilization. Before entering upon the task proper it will be well to have a foretaste of its character. In the first place, let us remind ourselves of the intimate way men's ideas about themselves, their estimates of their own worth and the worth of others, their personal conduct, and their treatment of other people, especially those of their own blood kin, and of strangers of alien race, have always been bound up with their beliefs and teachings about their own origin. To illustrate, think of the enormous part the doctrines of the Creation, the Fall and the Redemption of man has had in the history of Christian civilization! Keeping in mind the undoubted fact that man's theories of his own origin andthe origin of the world have always held the most vital relation to religion and ethics, ought to give the problems involved a keener, more personal interest than they otherwise would have, and so make tolerable phases of their discussion which but for such interest might seem too recondite and severe to be worth while. Theproblem before us may be characterized as one which will be a search after the truth and also...