The Labor Enquirer

We hear the words Anarchist and Socialist so often repeated it is well for us to inquire into their signification, and acquaint ourselves with the motive which prompts one in adding to their vocabulary these words. Webster defines Socialism as "a theory of society which advocates a more precise, orderly and harmonious arrangement of the social relations of mankind than what has hitherto prevailed."

This is the definition of the word which has filled with terror so many hearts, thinking it the worst compound of all evils and dangers. Then it is in its fullest and broadest sense an evangel of peace and happiness—a theory to demonstrate to the world the equality of mankind—a brotherhood and sisterhood of God's children.

The odium which has been cast upon those calling themselves Socialists is of such a character as to prejudice many an inquiring mind from investigating and informing themselves on this subject, knowing not whether it is an evil or blessing. All historical changes have been the result of class struggles. It is the exigencies of the times which have called this element into existence. Every stage of development which a nation passes through evolves certain issues which must be met. If for the benefit of the masses, sustained; if not, controverted. It is not certain persons clamoring for rights and justice; but the present state of affairs is produced by unlawful and arbitrary measures being adopted in all industrial, social and political departments; the obliterating of the middle class, thereby ingrafting a system of inequality which will produce master and slave.

The multiplicity of these combinations which surround us calls forth this spirit of controversy and the desire to overcome these environments. Socialism does not advocate the destruction of society. It is a constructive, an organizing, not a destroying science; seeking to build the social structure upon a solid basis—one which will not shake and tremble and disrupt at every presidential election or a new deal in stocks.

While Capitalism is that school of economics which teaches how one can live upon the labors of another. Socialism teaches how all may possess property, and teaches also every man must work honestly for his living. Socialism seeks to establish a universal system of co-operation, and to make accessible to each and every one of the human family the achievements and benefits of civilization, which, under the existing state of affairs, are being monopolized by the privileged class, not distributed as they should be for the common good of all. The most noble men of ancient and modern times were and are Socialists. Those glorious prophetic souls who penned the Declaration of Independence, writing in words of living fire the following memorable words, were Socialists:

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights. Among these are: the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. That to secure these rights governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and institute a new government; laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them the people shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness."

This is what those calling themselves Socialists are striving to do. The laws as they are administered are destructive to the liberty and happiness of the working population of the United States to-day.

Then all honor to those great minds who have grasped this science of Socialism, and lifted up their clarion voices in its defense. The names of Thomas Paine, Benjamin Franklin, Patrick Henry, during the Revolution; in our generation, a Phillips, a Garrison, a Parker, a Pierpont, an Emerson.

Then let our sympathies go out to those who are striving to uphold this tottering government, inspiring them with hope, zeal and fidelity to press onward, and "let justice be done though the heavens fall!"—A. W., in Golden Gate.