Workmen's advocate., 1888-06-09
GROWTH OF SOCIALISM. Chicago Converts Issue q Circular On
 COllectiyism.


 One of the results of Lawrence Gronlund's Western trip was the formation of what its members call the ColIectivst League. It's pur- pose and scope are announced in the following circrlar:
 Collectivism is the organization of in- dustry by the State, for the purpose of carrying on production for use alone, instead of profit.
 The productive forces, if unrestrained and properly organized, are capable of producing in abundance, necessaries, comforts and luxuries for every person.
 But under the existing system, the ne cessity of realizing profit from produce tion limits production when profit ceases Production for profit is, therefore, linn itzd by its market, and in turn it limits it's own market by continually diminish ing, through competitor, the purchasing power of the great body of consumers It thus hampers and dwarfs the action of the productive forces to such an ex- tent that the total product is insigniti- cant when considered in relation to the whole number of the population. Under this system the more prolific labor be- comes, the harder is the struggle for eX- istence.
 Production for use alone, under the State organization of labor, dispenses with the necessity for profit, and knows no limitation except the needs of men. It's capabiity is boundless.
 Collectivism therefore, would properly nourish, educate, protect and provide for man and woman throughout life. It would by organization, make the best possible use of men and would eliminate from life risk, anxiety and over-exertion. It would stimulate endeavor by giving to'every one the full results of his exer- tiOns, and give scope for the free in- yentive genius of man; it would give to every one who contributes his best en- deavor the advantage of it's benehcence It would remove the present antagonisms resulting from conflicting interests and make of men co-operators instead of CoInpetitoio, ssa,,enas diiu .lotsls ...- stead of opponents and enemies. It would engender mutual confidence by doing away with all causes of distrust. It would remove the existing obstacles to the development of man, and would promote the exercise of the most varied talents, and the growth of the noblest and best individuality. It would dis courage no ambition but that of greed and oppression. It would destroy the present tyranny of individuals by re- moving dependence of others upon them; would prevent oppression by the State by adding economic to political equality. It would secure the liberty and purity of woman by securing to her economic in- dependence.
 And this can be done by substituting for the capitalists and trusts, who are the present organizers of industry. the Peoples State, which will act for the people, through its agents chosen in wise methods by the people, and responsible to the people.
 Collectivists believe that the present system is rapidly tending toward such condition of society; that the change when it comes will be peaceful one and natural evolution, proUided the intell- gence of the people keeps pace with the rapid march of events. It is to further this intelligence that the Collectivst League is organized.