Art Quote by G. H. Hardy
“A science or an art may be said to be "useful" if its development increases, even indirectly, the material well-being and comfort of men, it promotes happiness, using that word in a crude and commonplace way.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Mathematics and Society, 1940
Science or art is useful if it indirectly improves human well‑being and happiness.
In simple terms: Utility measured by societal benefit.
Key Takeaway
Pursue work that benefits humanity.
Themes
philosophy
science
human welfare
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- research funding
- public policy
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
utility
ethical impact
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we evaluate a work’s societal impact?
- Should all art aim to be useful?
A Different Perspective
Measuring indirect benefits can be vague.
![“They [formulae 1.10 - 1.12 of Ramanujan] must be true because, if they were not true, no one would have had the imagination to invent them.” quote by G. H. Hardy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/360/g-h-hardy-8763_being-true_they-formulae-1-10-1-12-of-ramanujan-mus_364964.jpg)
