The Meaning of Modern Civilization
The meaning of modern “civilization” has been explained and illustrated by an object lesson. Congress has passed a law, in harmony with the action of other “civilized” nations, forbidding citizens of this country to sell intoxicants or firearms in any island of the Pacific Ocean not under the government of a civilized power. So the privilege of indulging in these “civilized” luxuries is an appurtenance of the boon of coming under the control of “civilized” nations. But why should not the protection of the government against these deadly foes of humanity be also extended to its own wards? Logically, naturally, and most reasonably, government protection is supposed to begin at home.