The Labor Conflict

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jun 20, 1878

The Labor Conflict.

In The Advocate, of New York, of June 5, 1878, we find an article headed, “Despotism, Anarchy, Justice—Which?” which is introduced by a statement from one of its correspondents as follows:—

An esteemed correspondent, who is known on both sides of the Atlantic as a concise and accurate thinker, writes:

My belief now, as in 1873, is that we shall not settle the question of finance, including the relations of capitalist and laborer, without a fight. Reason five years ago—the anticipated organization of the dangerous classes. Reason now—the actual organization of the dangerous classes. The bullionists and bankers, on one hand, boast of their organization. Like all representatives of vested interests, they have the inherent vice of blind obstinacy, and never surrender except on compulsion. On the other hand, the Labor Unions are perfecting and strengthening their organization all over the country. They would be guided by moderate counsels and by moderate men if met by moderation from the other side; but apparently this is past hope. So that with the large infusion of mechanics and laborers of European birth, who feel vindictive—inherit through generations a hatred of the rich—the Labor Unions will not be able to control the destructive elements within and outside of their organization. I regard a period of utter anarchy as quite possible, and more or less of violence as more than probable.