The labor world. [volume] (Duluth, Minn.) 1896-current, 1903-12-12
NECESSITY FOR KNOWLEDGE.

NECESSITY FOR KNOWLEDGE.
rs the ordinary member Of trade
union really student of economics, or
Is he merely a parrot-like enthusiast
in the cause of labOr?" This question
was asked by a friend of the Labor
World this week. your paper con-
tatns some very sound articles on in
dustrial affairs, and if your people
read them they should certainly do
some good" he continued.
This question has been ringing
through our ears for whole week.
Our greatest desire in the labor move
ment has been to encourage the work.
ingmen to become Students The day
is at hand when every man, no matter
what his work in life may be, should
be thoroughly posted in his business.
The typical artisan Of today must be
technical as we'll as practical. 1t is
not sufficient to know how to do GER
tain things at your trade, but it Is nee
essary to know why they are done,
and how they may be done economic
ally. The engineer must not only know
how to run an engine, but how 1t can
be done at the least cost giving the
very best service. The plumber must
have technical knowledge of sani-
tati0n in order that he may keep up
to-date on matters pertaining to the
that men can go through life, rather
successfully too, with a mere practical
knowledge of their business, but they
are not the men who stand foremost in
their trade or profession. It is the
student who reaches the top step in
any calling Of life.
What is true in ones vocation is also
true in economics and politics. The
trade union is both an economic and a
SO far as it deals with industrial af-
fairs in it's relations with private in
dividuals and concerns. It is political
so far as it aims to secure remedial
legislation for the workingmen in ma
tional state and municipal govern
ments.
Trade unionism has distinctive aim
and purpose. This means more than a
ad purpose. This means more than 3
simple demand for higher wages
shorter hours of labor and improved
industrial conditions. It's purpose is tt
ultimately release the wage slave from
industrial serfdom. What does thi
mean? Nothing more nor less thar
that the producer shall receive his full
share of that which he produces. Thi
indicates that labor must make al
eternal struggle, in order that thi
goal may be reached. Ever vigilant
ever watchful; ever alive to its owl
interest, with due respect for the right
and privileges of others.
The men needed in the labor move
ment, to attain this end, must be care
full students of economics. It is yer
easy to ape after the manner of a fey
leaders in the movement, but this doe
not bring the results desired. So muc
is expected of the rank and file. It i
their thoughts and sentiments tina
must rightfully guide leaders. Let thi
be Intelligent thought. Let this be hon
est thought, and we will have mo fea
Of the results.
Mr.. Wage Garner, why not begi
with this Christmas tide to devot
some of your idle moments to study
Read good books from the best author.
Read Carlyle. He may be tiresome a
first, but you will get interested a
you become acquainted with his styl,
He is a world of information on econ
omics. His writings are just what yo
want in your work. He will help t
balance you symetrically Smile
makes good reading. He will help yo
to reform yourself. Carlyle says, IRE
form, Oh Bobus like charity must be
gin at home. How can you expect t
reform, when We are not yourselves re
formed?''
Get a clear conception of the struE
giles Of the people in the past for NOR
liberty, be it political, industrial q
religious. When you shall have don
this you can with wisdom and intel
ligence become a useful and needf,
man in the labor movement
:. Begin now, and devote more time t
f.. study, and less to idleness in an
=" about saloons: and other places (
loiter. The labor movement is an ope
: field for studious, Thoughtful and hon
est men.
Some people seem to think 1abo
1,rion is a nanooAa Cor 4l.e Ill. -.