The two-volume History of Modern Philosophy, published in English in 1900, established Harald Høffding as a key authority on the development of Western thought. Based in Copenhagen throughout his life, he transitioned from an early focus on theology to a rigorous commitment to positivism, integrating the practical methodologies of psychology into his critical academic work.
Academic Career at Copenhagen
Born in 1843 to Niels Frederik Høffding and Martha Høffding, née Jhellerup, he spent his professional life at the University of Copenhagen. Initially a schoolmaster, he secured a professorship at the university in 1883. During his tenure, he served as rector for the 1902-1903 academic year. His lectures and research drew significant attention, including from the physicist Niels Bohr, who attended his courses and maintained a friendship with him. Among his students was the philosopher and author Ágúst H. Bjarnason.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Philosophical and Psychological Contributions
Høffding’s intellectual trajectory moved from the early influence of Søren Kierkegaard toward a positivist framework that combined empirical psychology with systematic philosophy. His 1894 text, Den nyere Filosofis Historie, served as his most prominent contribution, intended to expand upon the previous work of Hans Brøchner. Beyond history, he authored Psychology, the Problems of Philosophy in 1905 and Philosophy of Religion in 1906. His bibliography remains extensive, spanning studies on Charles Darwin, logic, and various historical philosophical figures, with most titles translated into German or English.
Institutional Recognition and Later Life
The Kingdom of Denmark recognized his contributions through multiple grades of the Order of the Dannebrog. He was appointed a Knight in 1894, received the Decoration of the Cross of Honour in 1901, and was named a commander in 1913. That same year, he attained the status of Knight Grand Officer, eventually receiving the Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog in 1919. He held memberships in prestigious international bodies, including the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences and Letters, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, and the Instituto de Estudios Catalanes. He died in his home city of Copenhagen in 1931.
Fast facts
- Born: 1843, Copenhagen
- Died: 1931, Copenhagen
- Primary Employer: University of Copenhagen
- Academic Position: Rector, 1902-1903
- Major Work: History of Modern Philosophy
- Award: Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog
- Language: Danish
Questions readers ask
What was the subject of his most famous English-translated book?
His 1900 publication, History of Modern Philosophy, provided a comprehensive survey of the evolution of modern thought.
Did he have any connections to notable scientists?
Yes, he was a mentor and friend to the physicist Niels Bohr, who attended his philosophy lectures at the University of Copenhagen.
Achievements
- Order of the Dannebrog
- Knight of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1894
- commander of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1913
- Knight Grand Officer of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1913
- Grand Cross of the Order of the Dannebrog — 1919
- Held posts at University of Copenhagen