The Change of Opinion (1921)

Abstract

It is the method of modern statesmen to talk as much folly as the public demand and to practise no more of it than is compatible with what they have said, trusting that such folly in action as must wait on folly in word will soon disclose itself as such, and furnish an opportunity for slipping back into wisdom —the Montessori system for the child, the public. He who contradicts this child will soon give place to other tutors. Praise, therefore, the beauty of the flames he wishes to touch, the music of the breaking toy; even urge him forward; yet waiting with vigilant care, the wise and kindly saviour of society, for the right moment to snatch him back, just singed and now attentive.

From A Revision of the Treaty (1922), chapter I, ‘The State of Opinion’.

An erratum to this chapter is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/10.1007/978-1-349-59072-8_28