On the Significance of Science and Art (eBook)

Count Lev Nikolayevich Tolstoy, known in English as Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910), was a Russian writer who is considered one of the greatest authors of all time. Born to an aristocratic Russian family in 1828, he is best known for his epic novels 'War and Peace' (1869) and 'Anna Karenina' (1877), which have been celebrated for their complex characters, moral philosophy, and keen observation of 19th-century Russian society. Tolstoy's literary style combines realism with philosophical contemplation, often exploring the ethical struggles of his characters and the broader social issues of his time. In 'On the Significance of Science and Art', Tolstoy delves into the role and influence of intellectual pursuits on society and critiques the disconnect he perceives between these disciplines and the moral well-being of humanity. His later works also reflect his increasing interest in spiritual and philosophical questions, leading to a radical re-evaluation of his life and the development of his distinct pacifist and anarchist beliefs. Tolstoy's ideas on nonviolent resistance had a profound impact on figures such as Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. His literary prowess, encompassing numerous novels, short stories, plays, and philosophical essays, cements his place in the pantheon of literary history, with a continuing influence on writers and thinkers worldwide.