Six Major Prophets

The author offers six extended sketches of leading contemporary thinkers—George Bernard Shaw, H. G. Wells, G. K. Chesterton, F. C. S. Schiller, John Dewey, and Rudolf Eucken—explaining their central ideas, intellectual temperaments, and public roles. He aims chiefly at exposition, summarizing each figure’s philosophy, scientific or literary background, characteristic methods, and notable arguments rather than delivering sustained criticism. Prefatory remarks explain the selection criteria and the effort to bring abstract theories within reach of general readers. The essays guide readers toward which thinkers may serve as personal guides, and they combine biographical detail with clear synopses of doctrines and practical implications.