REGIMENTATION OF THE PUBLIC

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24423, 8 October 1940, Page 11

REGIMENTATION OF THE PUBLIC

I'U nil liUITOH Sir—lt is claimed by many that we have become mere automatons, whose performances arc controlled by invisible wires in the hands of autocratic rulers possessed of a philosophy completely at variance with that spirit of freedom and independence which is inborn in the British race. If evidence were wanting that we have fallen from this high estate we have abundance when we gaze upon the voluminous piles of Government documents, wuh their accompanying directions and threats of heavy penalties, that occupy the shelves of farmers, business firms, and private homos. We also feel the weight, both numerically and physically, of the army of inspectors, committees. and other officials who are now required to see that the Government’s orders are carried out in a satisfactory manner. In the drastic change brought about in our being we have another example of history repeating itself. It is rare to find that oppressed—or. for that matter, we suppose, mythically oppressed —nations have improved their condition by such a change as we have witnessed In this connection hear what a famed ex-New Zealand ethnoiogist, philologist, and journalist has to say. Although \yell known in this country as a minister at the beginning of the century, his work abroad was of such a character that he is little known to the present generation. Finding that his duties were of a too prescribed nature to satisfy his ambition, he left the ministry and proceeded to Berlin, finishing his studies under the wellknown scientist, Professor Harnack. At the age of 11 he could write and speak seven foreign languages, and added to this number during his sojourn in the German capital, and he was in the habit of visiting the wharves for the purpose of conversing with foreign sailors. Subsequently, this number was increased to 50, half of which he could write and speak fluently. His

constant urge to work for some great cause found an outlet when, after taking his degree, he decided that the cause of the peasantry and workers, under Imperialistic rule in Russia, was one that would fulfil his ambition. Refusing several offers of lucrative engagements of scientific importance, he cast in his lot with the oppressed classes. Here he married a Russian widow, who was an authoress and journalist. He travelled extensively, acted as the Russian correspondent of several English journals, and won the reputation of being the most reliable authority on the European political situation. After 12 years’ work he, with his wife and step-daughter, were compelled to flee the country, and after undergoing great suffering, reached London, where he joined the staff of The Times as foreign editor and director. Ho bitterly complained that the oppressed became greater despots than the tyrants whom they deposed. In the scholarly circles in which he moved he added a bright ray to the lustre that has crowned the achievements of the talented men and women of this country. The question whether his verdict applies to our own position must be left to the individual judgment of the community. In the pursuit of a phantom what crimes, what follies have been perpetrated, what suffering and injustice have been inflicted upon millions throughout the ages in the sacred name of progress! Nearer our own country and generation we can recall the fortunes of New South Wales, Mexico, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Russia, and other countries, but the lessons of the past are not easily learned. Our credulity is one of the weak traits in our character. It may be played upon by the blaring of false prophets until it is as responsive as a barrel organ, the handle of which is turned by an itinerant “ musician.” It , is generally believed that British people are patient, and that it takes a great deal of kicking and punching before they can be moved into action.

Wc cannot expect, therefore, any counter action until it is realised that we have had sufficient of this treatment. When this happens we know what will be the result. Cap. anyone prophecy how long we must wait for this to occur?—l am, etc.. P- S. October 6.