Thomas Hill Green 
An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times 

In ‘An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times’ by Thomas Hill Green, the author delves into the significance of fiction in shaping contemporary society. Green explores the literary style of various works of fiction and examines how they reflect and influence the cultural attitudes and values of the time. Through a meticulous analysis, Green presents a thought-provoking argument on the power of literature in shaping public opinion and societal norms, making it a valuable read for those interested in both literature and social history. Written in a scholarly and insightful manner, the book provides a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of fiction on the modern world. Thomas Hill Green, a renowned philosopher and political theorist, brings his expertise to the discussion of fiction’s role in society. His background in ethics and political philosophy provides a unique perspective on the intersection of literature and societal influence, adding depth and credibility to his analysis. Green’s intellectual curiosity and passion for understanding the human experience shine through in this insightful work. For readers interested in exploring the interconnectedness of literature and society, ‘An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times’ is a must-read. Green’s thorough examination of the cultural impact of fiction offers a compelling argument for the importance of literature in shaping our worldviews and beliefs, making it a valuable addition to any literary scholar’s collection.

A propos de l’auteur

Thomas Hill Green (1836-1882) was a prominent English philosopher known for his significant contributions to political philosophy and ethical theory. Born in Birkin, Yorkshire, Green was educated at Rugby School before attending Balliol College, Oxford, where he would later become Whyte’s Professor of Moral Philosophy. A leading figure among the British Idealists, his philosophical work sought to reconcile the liberal, democratic impulses of his era with a firm grounding in moral principle. While Green’s most substantial philosophical texts include ‘Prolegomena to Ethics’ (1883), where he presented his ethical theory, and his ‘Lectures on the Principles of Political Obligation, ‘ in which he outlined his conception of rights and the role of the state, he also engaged with the world of literature and culture. His essay ‘An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times’ delves into the impact of literary works on the society and the moral development of individuals. This essay reflects Green’s view that fiction plays an educational and social function, shaping the ideals and character of readers. Green’s work, while firmly rooted in the philosophical tradition, also displays a broader concern with the welfare and improvement of society, marking him as a thinker deeply engaged with the practical application of ethical ideals in the modern world.