The evening telegraph. [volume] (Philadelphia [Pa.]) 1864-1918, 1864-09-19
PRACTICAL EDUCATION OF THE
MAGIE4

We believe that II may be demonstrated
that the world is outgrOwing the learned pro-
iessions; that in proportion to the increase Of
population less resort is had TO the services
of the doctor or the lawyer; in short, that the
learned professions are fast losing their attrac-
tiveness to the generation which is now fast
stepping upon the threshold of preparation
for future usefulness.
That this is So we judge from ample evil
dence, from the increased ardor with which
scientific and mechanical pursuits are adopted;
from the enhanced degree Of respect which is
attached to the proficient in mechanical arts;
and from the lucrative return which rewards
the mechanic or artisan who possesses supe-
rior ability or skill. Gradually, but surely,
the line OF demarcation between the techni-
cally learned vocations and the more laborlous
pursuits of life is undergoing obliteration;
and ere long, the law Of caste, hitherto mex
orablc in its eXclusiyeness, will be no longer
recognized among us. The increasing intelli-
gence Of the age IS accomplishing this change.
The light of science, which is burning every
day brighter and brighter, and spreading
wider and wider, must ultimately render the
great mass of the people to a certain extent
Independent of the specially erudite few.
People nowadays think, and thought is the
source of set-reliance. Parents do not now
see, as they once did, paramount advantage
in an education strictly professional Within
a short time past, our highest colleges have
appreciated this fact, and have instituted
scientific departments, in which they graduate
a., l.,
in the dead languages. This is wise and
acceptable innovation, rs it enables a student
to discard the studies which would be valueless
| to him as a mechanic, while he can devote his
enure attention to the modern languages,
mathematics, and useful sciences, and take his
degree side by side with those who have spent
their best years in devotion to the ancient
classics.
With regard to law nothing need be said
To Judge of the facilities which it offers fol-
advancement, il Is only necessary to compare
the numbers of the successful few TO the host
who fail to earn livelihood in the profession.
When we observe the manifest spirit OF the
age to simplify legal proceedings, and to teal
away the cloak of mystery which surround.
|
except in extraordinary cases, every man viii
he his own lawyer.
We repeat, the world is outgrowing tn,
learned professions. We are glad that thi
is so. II is one Of the most gratifying sign
Of progress which mark this cminently pro
gressiyc age. II is an auspicioul omen Of tht
tyehtual coming of the time when pervl
slye, universal popular enlightenment respect
ing whatever concerns mankind In the prdc
deal business of life will lessen the barriers O
division that not only break society int
rla,-,- (which is. as regards mere difference
Of occupation ana economic relations, ucce7
sary ard henenclall, but separate them i
social equality and intercourse.
Let us hope, therefore, that the work q
p IubIic aud individual education viii eoatmu
to 90 forward rapidly, since it viii hasten th
! day when the average Of general comlor
} prosperity, and happiness will be advanced
] a point more elevated than any it has yc
+ attained in the history Of the race,