SOCIALISTS.

Gisborne Standard and Cook County Gazette, Volume III, Issue 360, 5 October 1889, Page 2

SOCIALISTS.

Mr Cunningham Graham (himself a Socialist) says that the reason why the English working man is not so Socialistic as his continental brother is that the British laborers “ have been kept down by the Bible, long hours of work, drink, and respect for the upper classes." On the other hand, Mr William Morris, author of “ The Earthly Paradise,” claims that England is getting more Socialistic everyday ; that where a few years ago a Socialist would be hooted, he is now enthusiastically applauded, and that a greater number of persons than formerly have enrolled themselves as Socialists. The Spectator, referring to these two statements, says that the first is quite true ; that it is evidence of the deep religious feelings of the Englishman, his contentment under the existing condition of society, and his horror of class-hatreds and class-warfare. The facts put forth by Mr Morris prove nothing more than that the novelty of Socialism has worn off, and therefore people are more tolerant of it. The increase of Socialist clubs can easily be accounted for by the constantly changing of movements and agitations, arid just as one no longer hears of Republicans and Secularist Societies the Socialist will likewise disappear when some other thing arises to take its place. Before a proper start can be given to Socialism, religious feeling must be got rid of, material discontent produced, and class-jealousy introduced. This will, however (the Spectotor thinks), tax the Socialists beyond their strength.