First Things Podcast
What Was Humanism?
Oct 14, 2024
Eric Adler, a Classics Professor at the University of Maryland and author, explores early 20th-century humanism through the correspondence of Irving Babbitt and Paul Elmer Moore. He discusses the shift from classical education to research universities and critiques the focus on science at the expense of the humanities. The conversation delves into Babbitt’s fierce intellect and his influence on the literary canon, alongside a personal transformation tied to Shakespeare’s legacy, blending faith with philosophical exploration.
26:39
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Quick takeaways
- Babbitt and Moore criticized the shift in American education from humanism to a scientific model, harming character development and civilization continuity.
- The correspondence between Babbitt and Moore reveals their intellectual friendship that shaped New Humanism, blending criticism with nuanced perspectives on literature and faith.
Deep dives
The New Humanism Movement
Irving Babbitt and Paul Elmer Moore were significant intellectuals of the early 20th century, leading the New Humanism movement, which sought to reconnect with historical humanist principles. They believed that while human beings possess both noble and base instincts, education should focus on fostering the good and suppressing the bad for the cultivation of a meaningful life. Their criticism of American higher education stemmed from their view that it had shifted from a humanist foundation to a model prioritizing the scientific method, which they believed ultimately diminished the role of character development. This shift was seen as detrimental not only to individual flourishing but also to the broader continuity of civilization.
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