Prof. Zueblin on "Decay of Authority"

Professor Charles Zueblin, of the University of Chicago, addressed a large audience in the New Lecture Hall yesterday afternoon, in the third lecture of his series on "A Democratic Religion," taking for his main theme "The Decay of Authority."

Professor Zueblin in his characteristic manner showed by a brief survey of history from feudal times, how authority in its various phases has gradually but markedly decayed. The decay is evident in the authority of the parent over the child, in the authority of the husband over his wife, in the power of the employer over the employee. It is but a logical, natural, and desirable growth. What is now desired to complete the advance is an increase in spiritual authority, for which the prospect is bright.

In feudal times our industrial system was composed of various classes hierarchically related to each other. This system has gradually decayed, and with its decline the employees have been able to realize themselves more fully. Their scope has broadened, and they are approaching more and more that condition in which by fellowship and co-operation. In short by union, they are able to stand on an equal footing with their employers.

Intellectual attainments are at present employed for a selfish purpose. The college-bred man by virtue of his knowledge too often desires to triumph over his less fortunate neighbor, and instead of uplifting him prefers to profit by his ignorance. In the same manner the authority of birth attempts to assert itself. But this must inevitably give way to merit which at present will be measured in pecuniary terms, a condition not wholly desirable, but merely a stepping stone to something higher.

Again in religion the same decay is apparent. The light is gradually dawning upon us by the spread of learning and the growth of individual criticism. The light is gradually dawning upon us by the spread of learning and the growth of individual criticism. The truth is gradually replacing creed and dogma, and we are no longer bound by the letters of a back. Christ, whether regarded as divine, or human, or mythical, nevertheless stands revealed to us as a great example to be followed through all generations. He has left his impression upon us, an undying impression which ever will reassert itself.