How to get Socialism.

Maoriland Worker, Volume I, Issue 6, 20 February 1911, Page 11

How to get Socialism.

(Contributed.)

In writing an article of this nature and such vast magnitude, one is conscious of the fact that it is very much misunderstood. I am taking it for granted that those who read this do understand the subject, and are more or less in agreement with its main points. Hence, my task will be somewhat easier, although there will be difference of opinion. First., I would like to point out in all seriousness that the people will not be brained in that direction by professing Socialists who use certain phrases which no doubt are right to those who use them, but absolutely unintelligible to those who listen. Phrases like class war emancipation, economic determinism, and so forth, have become the watchword of Socialists. They forget that the average man does not really understand them, nor does his mind grasp those technical expressions which have become like the worn-out creeds of the churches. Really, the main factor to achieve that for which we strive can be summed up in one word, namely, education, and, of course, that process has to be carried through definite channels. There is the Press, which must play an important part, and those who propagate and believe in Socialism o light to endeavour to get a daily national paper. Then there is the industrial solidarity of the wageearners. They must be made to understand that co-operation and consolidation are employed by the employing classes, they knowing too well that it is in their own interests. Trade unionism must be persuaded that sectionalism has served its purpose, and a larger, more comprehensive policy must guide their future. This can be done without all that personal abuse which is so often employed; after all, we must recognise that people are just as honest as we are. Thirdly, there is one great subject- which is of a rather controversial nature, but which must be faced. Somehow or another the people still cling to political action, and while that is the case we shall have to make up our minds to establish a party which will have Socialism for its objective. The question natui--ally arises, ought that party to be purely destructive or constructive ? I say without hesitation, if we co for political action at all we must have a constructive policy, each successive piece of legislation to be a steppingstone towards the great co-operative Commonwealth. Underlying all these suggestions there are various other agencies which influence and determine the future. Meanwhile, 1 hope this short epistle will serve to open up a controversy and finally settle for us the way to work. From observation I can see great possibilities. The time has come for action.