THE WORKING FAITH OF THE SOCIAL 

 REFORMER 



THE NEED AND CONDITIONS OF A SCIENCE OF 

 SOCIAL LIFE 



THE problems of social life can be solved only by the associated 

 will of good men, which is the true Church ; and only by the 

 " Church " if it understands as well as sympathizes. 



The complexity of the social structure, and the need of 

 enquiry. The enquiry must be conducted by many minds, 

 for all men must share in the social virtues. Characteristics 

 of the true reformer : insight into the needs of men, a high 

 opinion of human nature, and trust in the good already 

 working in the world. The British people at present lack the 

 way rather than the will towards social reforms. A science 

 of social life the deepest need of the times. The conditions 

 which obstruct the attempt to establish it : distrust of theory ; 

 the notion that history is the scene of caprice and chance ; the 

 false opposition between law and freedom. How practical life 

 refutes these objections. Society being the product of man's 

 rational nature is capable of rational interpretation. Contrast 

 between our attitude towards the science of social life and the 

 sciences of physical facts. The need of the application of 

 strict methods of enquiry greater than at any previous time. 

 The growth of social sympathy, and how, if ill-informed, it 

 is apt to be revolutionary. Reverence for the State best learnt 

 from observing it as it is : example from the social life of 

 Glasgow. The true reformer trusts the good already operating 

 in the world, and comes not to destroy but to fulfil. The 

 temperament of the English people, and the conditions under 

 which they may be helped to a better life. 



