ABSTRACT F. R. Leavis argued that literary studies could provide an incomparable initiation into tradition and cultural continuity and a true liberal education by educating people intellectually, emotionally and morally. This paper examines Leavis's arguments regarding literary criticism's propensity to provide a test for life and values. It also examines the value system within which Leavis operates; and the relations postulated between literary studies, moral understanding and aesthetic experience. It is concluded that while Leavis's conception of literary studies is distinctive (...) and valuable his argument is lacking philosophically and empirically, failing to provide adequate justification either for the supposed benefits of literary studies, or for charging the literary-educated with the duty of maintaining standards for society. (shrink)