Modern Society

Name: Modern Society
Author: Julia Ward Howe

By Julia Ward Howe

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Philosophy & Ethics Sociology

About This Book

The essay meditates on contemporary social change, opening with a philosophical distinction between logical and substantive oppositions and then examining how social life and religion have shifted from secluded piety to active public engagement. It argues for courageous, action-oriented devotion and for church-centered associations that shape civic tone, notes transatlantic cultural currents influencing manners and arts, and criticizes rising luxury and the idolatry of money as threats to republican equality. Education and social contact are praised for expanding sympathy, while wealth is shown not to guarantee virtue or talent, prompting a call for moral as well as material reform.

About the Author

Julia Ward Howe

Julia Ward Howe (1819-1910) was an American author, poet, and social activist, best known for her role in the abolitionist movement and women's suffrage. She gained prominence with her poem "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," which became an anthem during the Civil War. Howe's literary contributions extend beyond poetry; her works include travel narratives such as "A Trip to Cuba" and essays that explore societal norms in "Is Polite Society Polite? and Other Essays." Additionally, she wrote biographical works, including a notable biography of Margaret Fuller. Throughout her life, Howe was a passionate advocate for social reform, leaving a lasting impact on American literature and activism.