A B C of modern socialism

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An Ethical Revolution

Now we cannot experience an industrial revolution without a corresponding change in our personal habits and conduct. This need not, and perhaps does not, imply a similar change in religious faith. For all I know the Christian may still cherish or even strengthen his spiritual convictions; but in our daily relations with each other, in our purposes and motives, a profound transvaluation is inevitable. How often, for example, have we heard the comment that this or that capitalist method or action is “‘not ethical.” Remarks of that sort are, I imagine, frequent at meetings of Rotary clubs. That means that there are religious men who, with trivial reservations, can reconcile their religion with our present economic system. Let us pray for them! Nevertheless, we shall have to adapt ourselves to new moral conditions. What will they be?

Before that question can be answered we must first understand the relation of man to his function and the relation of both to the higher purposes of life.

Suppose we are in a ship overtaken by a tornado. Suppose the owner is on board, and, distracted by the possible loss of his property, interferes with the navigation. The captain sternly orders him to go below. The owner appeals to passengers and crew. **Gentlemen,” he says, “‘this is my ship; can’t I do what I like with my own?” Passengers and crew promptly stand by the captain, and the owner is unceremoniously suppressed. Why? Because the captain’s function is seamanship; in the circum-