Sameiningin - 01.04.1927, Síða 23

clouded by the use of alcohol, he fails in a crisis, and there is trouble
and danger in store.
As individuals then, if we would become educated and assume
the responsibilities given educated people—we must be in full power
of our facilities at all tinnes—and in view of the continual ikeen com-
petition of the present day, we cannot afford to indulge in that which
clouds our understanding and limits our abilities.
An individual whose sensitiveness to right and wrong becomes
innpaired, becomes a menace to the people with whom he comes in
contact. That fact is reeognized by the law which prohibits a man
driving a car when under the influence of liquor. Such a law, of
course, is an obvious necessity. But the recognition of alcohol as a
drug, makes us realize that even a slight quality dulls the senses and
the individual becomes a rnenaee, tho inot in as obvious a fashion,
perhaps a greater menace, because only the most delicate perceptions
are impaired and there is no sign of the danger.
If an individual who indulges in intoxicants is a rnenace not only
to himself but to those about him, it is quite obvious that this question
is not of individual scope, but of communities, — national and inter-
national importance. — Time does not perrnit a discussion of that
aspect of the question. — Having seen how temperance aids educa-
tiori,—let me take this relation between Education and Temperance
from another angle.—
The question arises — what is Education doing to aid Temper-
ance?
In the past, prohibition forces were active in
lst,) teaching both in schools and through other agencies the
dangers of use of alcohol.
2nd,) In investigating conditions and bringing reports before
the people.
3rdJ In organizing and carrying out the struggle for temper-
ance.
When prohibition was approved by the people, many of these
activities ceased, and for some time there was a lull in the struggle
between the two contending forces.
Now there is a renewcd activity and interest, and education will
play a large part in the future of the temperance movement.
Responsibility for this education rests with voluntary organiza-
tion, and its scope is three-fold:
1. Scientific—Any effective plan for increasing public intel-
ligence on the alcohol question must put into first plaoe modern
scientific facts, which will help to dislodge old beliefs, traditionally
favorable to it, and will teach the youth the truth before ancient
superstition grips him.
2. Historical—A knowledge of the story of the prohibition
movement is necessary if we are to form unbiased opinions.