The future will be determined in part by happenings that it is impossible to foresee; it will also be influenced by trends that are now existent and observable.
Emily Greene BalchA second characteristic of our time is the prevalence of nationalism. This is still spreading, affecting new communities, more peripheral regions and so-called backward peoples.
Emily Greene BalchThe First World War, and especially the latest one, largely swept away what was left in Europe of feudalism and of feudal landlords, especially in Poland, Hungary, and the South East generally.
Emily Greene BalchMen who are scandalized at the lack of freedom in Russia do not ask themselves how real is liberty among the poor, the weak, and the ignorant in capitalist society.
Emily Greene BalchIt is natural to try to understand one's own time and to seek to analyse the forces that move it.
Emily Greene BalchWe are not asked to subscribe to any utopia or to believe in a perfect world just around the corner. We are asked to be patient with necessarily slow and groping advance on the road forward, and to be ready for each step ahead as it become practicable. We are asked to equip ourselves with courage, hope, readiness for hard work, and to cherish large and generous ideals.
Emily Greene Balch