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True Solution of the Labor Problem

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 23, 1913

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 90, No. 4.

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True Solution of the Labor Problem

By S. B. HORTON

S. B. HORTON
In the war between capital and labor it is very seldom that fundamental principles are considered by either of the parties to the controversy when the matter of ameliorating conditions is considered. Many are the panaceas proposed, consisting for the most part of unionism, combine, and legislation, all of which are, however, admittedly but temporary reforms.
The Michigan State Labor Commissioner, Perry F. Powers, seems to appreciate the true principles involved, and recognizes the true solution. In an address before a Grand Rapids, Mich., society recently on “The Labor Problem,” Mr. Powers maintained that “the application of Christianity to real life is the only true and permanent solution of the labor problem.” He continued:—
“I am a union man. I have struck with the union, and lost my job as a consequence. I appreciate unionism. And yet I say that neither unionism, single tax, socialism, nor legislation will solve the labor problem until every employer and employee realizes that what benefits his fellow man, high or low, benefits him.
“These reforms are temporary. They smooth over the surface. But they offer no solution to the underlying cause, deep as human nature, the ambition of one man to push ahead of another. That is what we must deal with to solve the problem. . . .
“We all must surrender some things to arrive at this end. Even in our religion, when we pray to ‘Our Father,’ that very badge of heredity on which we pride ourselves necessarily implies that we place ourselves on a level before him with all humanity, his other sons.
“Let us respect our brothers. Our spirit of ambition to rise is laid deep as human nature. I should not wish to eradicate it. The thing we must strive for is the higher ambition, where every man will climb to the mountain height of his ambition by the side of his brothers, and will lend them a helping hand.”
It were well if all parties to this controversy would recognize and stand for the spirit contained in the foregoing address.
Grand Rapids, Mich.