Optimism the True View
"What is to be the outcome of this movement of the nations upon American political and industrial life is a question which confronts us with a problem never before presented in the world's history. Upon a review of the entire situation I think we may be optimists. Notwithstanding all unfavorable features, there are antagonizing elements constantly at work, not the less potent because they work silently. We may attach undue importance to statistics merely.
Assimilating Agencies
"Students of the immigration problem do not sufficiently observe the influences—in fact, the immigrant may not himself be conscious of them—which year after year tend to adjust his habits of thought and his political views and actions to his new environment. Freedom of suffrage, educational advantages, improved industrial conditions, the dignity of citizenship, equal laws, protection of property—all these nourish in him an increasing respect for the American system; and we have reason to believe that, under proper legislation, the combined influence of all these will in the long run fully neutralize the distinctly unfavorable results of future immigration."
Solution by Combined Forces
With this we are in accord, provided the Christian people of America can be brought to see and do their whole duty by the aliens. The solution of the problem demands the combined forces of our educational, social, political, and evangelical life. In that solution is involved the destiny of ultimate America.
QUESTIONS FOR CHAPTER VII
Aim: To Realize the Effect of Immigration Upon the National Character and Our Individual Responsibility for Improving Conditions
I. Reasons for Concern.
I. * Do you think that immigration makes a very serious problem for the United States? Why? Mention others who think differently. Why do you not agree with them?
2. * Are there any foreigners in your neighborhood? What are they and what can you do for them?
3. Do these immigrants long retain their foreign aspect and ways? In what respects do they change most quickly?
4. What does Professor Mayo-Smith say about keeping American ideals intact? Must Protestant Christianity be guarded?