UNEMPLOYMENT AND CIVILISATION.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 233, 2 October 1928, Page 6

UNEMPLOYMENT AND CIVILISATION.

While it is true, as your correspondent Mr. Edwards remarks, that much of the prevalent unemployment and consequent suffering amongst us has been caused by the introduction of labour-saving machinery, it most also be kept in view that this "species of invention is as yet but in its infancy. What will happen throughout the world when, dne to this cause, the ranks of the unemployed are multiplied tenfold the future holds hidden from us. Yet it merits the serious consideration of constructive and far-seeing thinkers. Should the effect be to force man back to the land, his rightful heritage, it will be a blessing in disguise, for there he will at least find shelter and food, and, what is even more, peace of mind. It is inevitable that our civilisation must undergo a change, a change that will be welcomed by many. In the civilisation of our limited planet physical force has played the greater part since it has almost entirely ignored the spiritual side of man's nature, thus opening the door for the entrance of mutual misunderstandings, hatred and suspicion. Hence the brotherhood of man has been thwarted. Also B our civilisation, in its rush for wealth and power, developed materialistic greed to such an extent that it is heading for the goal of suicide, disruption and chaos.