Science and Poetry

'Science and Poetry' is a foundational work of literary theory that explores the shifting relationship between scientific advancement and the human need for poetic expression. Written by the influential critic I. A. Richards, this treatise examines the psychological impact of the ’neutralization of nature’-the process by which science stripped the physical world of its traditional mythological and emotional resonances. Richards argues that as the scientific worldview provides a purely factual understanding of the universe, the role of poetry becomes more vital than ever as a means of organizing human experience and maintaining psychological balance.The text introduces the concept of ’pseudo-statements,’ suggesting that while poetry does not offer scientific truths, it provides essential emotional truths that satisfy the human psyche. By analyzing how poetry functions as a tool for value-alignment and emotional health, Richards lays the groundwork for what would become the New Criticism movement. 'Science and Poetry' is an essential read for scholars of aesthetics and philosophy, offering a rigorous defense of the arts in a modern, technocratic age. This work remains a classic exploration of how literature preserves human meaning in the face of objective empirical inquiry.This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.