We have kept alive and well for future generations one of the great treasures of the world. We have also kept alive as well our faith that education can improve the human lot and that by learning each generation can be better than the last. That hope, that faith in education and learning does not seem to be misplaced. Despite the lamentable crimes and tragedies that are always before us, despite the foolishness and craziness of some of our fellow creatures, the human race has advanced. We are more healthy and we live longer.
Sanitation is better.
The barriers of distance have been almost abolished. People of all lands are carried to and fro by ships and planes. The world is linked electronically. We have instant communication by telephone, by television, by fax, by e-mail. The barriers of language and culture are being lowered.