We may conclude, then, that if the direct employers fail to fulfill their duties towards their employees, that the Consuming Class, as being a beneficiary of the work done, are bound to assume these duties. As yet, however, the obligation is abstract as being fixed upon a class and not some particular individual about to purchase an article; and it is hypothetical as simply assuming that employers neglect their duties.
The further question now presents itself: Do employers actually neglect their duties, and what can and should the Consumer do?
FOOTNOTES:
[2] Great Encyclicals of Leo XIII, "On the Condition of Labor," p. 236: N. Y., 1903.
[3] "Pope Pius X on Social Reform," London, 1910: p. 8.
[4] Kelleher, "Private Ownership," Dublin, 1911: p. 174; cf. also p. 179. Italics added.
[5] "Christ, the Church, and Man," p. 74: St Louis, 1909.
[6] Gury: "Compendium theologiæ moralis," n. 579: De just. et jure: Ratisbon, 1874.
[7] See Appendix, 1.