[17] A civilization which tends to concentrate
wealth and power in the hands of a fortunate
few, and to make of others
mere
human machines,
must inevitably
evolve anarchy and bring destruction. But a civilization
is possible in which the poorest could have all the comforts
and conveniences
now
enjoyed by the
rich; in which prisons and almshouses would be
needless, and charitable societies unthought of. Such a civilization
waits only
for the social
intelligence
that will adapt means to ends. Powers that might
give
plenty to all are already in our hands. Though there is
poverty and
want, there is,
yet,
seeming embarrassment
from the very excess of wealth-producing forces. "Give us but a market," say
manufacturers, "and we will supply goods without end!" "Give
us but work!" cry idle men.
[19] The progress of civilization requires that more and more intelligence
be devoted to social affairs, and this not the intelligence of the few, but
that of the many. We cannot safely leave politics to politicians, or political
economy to college professors. The people themselves must think, because
the people alone can act.
[21] The intelligence required for the solving of social problems
is not a thing of the mere intellect. It must be animated with the
religious sentiment
and warm with sympathy for human suffering. It must stretch out beyond self-interest,
whether it be the self-interest of the few or of the many. It must seek justice.
For at the bottom of every social problem we will find a social wrong. ...
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