Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 1.djvu/779

Rh wrath has been made manifest. Farther in this direction it is impossible to go.

Sometimes, especially in rude or new communities ere the legal habit is formed, the public ventures on molestation or violence, thereby forsaking purely social punishment and laying hand to an order of penalty belonging to the organs of law. Egging, hazing, whipping, branding, mutilation, riding on a rail, running out of town, tarring and feathering, lynching—any and all of the personal indignities and corporal pains that can be inflicted by a mob—may be used. This occasional resort to physical force must not be allowed to obscure the characteristic feature of social punishments which is refusal to esteem, communicate or aid.

The system of rewards emplo3'ed by the public answers to its system of punishments.

The minor acts that win general approval meet recognition in unusual warmth and cordiality of social intercourse, in greater deference, in more bountiful hospitality, in praises, congratulations and friendliness. If the service is greater, the hero is made the target of outspoken praise, pulpit and press belaud him, applause greets him everywhere and processions form in his honor. Haughty patricians vie for his company, the social circle lionizes him and in all his dealings his word and deed meet with greater respect.

If his merit be a signal social service, displaying rare courage or self-sacrifice, more formal expressions of public admiration are adopted. Honorary offices, degrees and titles, membership in exclusive societies, the freedom of this or that city are conferred upon him. He encounters public deputations, serenades, demonstrations, pageants, banquets and solemn ceremonial functions. Medals and decorations are showered upon him and he is embarrassed with swords, canes, gold snuff-boxes, parchment memorials and engrossed resolutions. The popular hero, moreover, finds the struggle for a livelihood materially lightened. Rewards, purses, popular subscription funds are presented to him. Place is made for him and he is boosted into a position