have merit and should be carefully
studied. None can be looked to as a panacea. There are those who believe
that legislation is the cure-all for every social, economic, political, and
industrial ill. Much can be done by legislation to prevent injustice and
encourage right tendencies, but legislation will never solve the industrial
problem. Its solution can be brought about only by the introduction of a
new spirit into the relationship between the parties to industry--a spirit
of justice and brotherhood.

The personal relationship which existed in bygone days is essential to the
development of this new spirit. It must be reestablished; if not in its
original form at least as nearly so as possible. In the early days of the
development of industry, the employer and capital investor were frequently
one. Daily contact was had between him and his employees, who were his
friends and neighbors. Any questions which arose on either side were taken
up at once and readily adjusted. A feeling of genuine friendliness, mutual
confidence, and stimulating interest in the common enterprise was the
result. How different is the situation to-day! Because of the proportions
which modern industry has attained, employers and employees are too often
strangers to each other. Personal contact, so vital to the success of any
enterprise, is practically unknown, and naturally, misunderstanding,
suspicion, distrust, and too often hatred have developed, bringing in their
train all the industrial ills which have become far too common. Where men
are strangers and have no points of contact, this is the usual outcome. On
the other hand, where men meet frequently about a table, rub elbows,
exchange views and discuss matters of common interest, almost invariably it
happens that the vast majority of their differences quickly disappear and
friendly relations are established. Much of the strife and bitterness in
industrial relations results from lack of ability or willingness on the
part of both labor and capital to view their common problems each from the
other's point of view.

A man who recently devoted some months to studying the industrial problem
and who came in contact with thousands of workmen in various industries
throughout the country has said that it was obvious to him from the outset
that the working men were seeking for something, which at first he thought
to be higher wages. As his touch with them extended, he came to the
conclusion, however, th