Page:American Journal of Sociology Volume 15.djvu/431

 REVIEWS 417

system. The distinction between individual freedom and class free- dom makes itself increasingly apparent in American society. In the old days classes were represented as stages through which the ambitious individual rises triumphantly. Now we are beginning to realize that with us as with older societies the many must remain within the limits of a more and more rigid status and that new problems are involved. Professor Cooley states this forcefully: "The question of freedom, as applied to class conditions, has two somewhat distinct aspects : ( i ) Freedom to rise from one class into another; (2) freedom of classes — not opportunity to get out of them but to be something in them" (p. 246).

The author's discussion of democracy affords a typical example of the way in which he presents familiar ideas in a vivid, effective fashion. Rejecting the idea that the masses at a given time are able critically to analyze and rationally to meet complex situations. Professor Cooley describes democracy in this summary fashion: "They (the undistinguished masses of the people) contribute senti- ment and common-sense, which gives momentum and general direction to progress, and, as regards particulars, finds its way by a shrewd choice of leaders" (p. 148). It would be hard to find anywhere a more compact statement of the newer interpretation of democracy. Professor Cooley displays the utmost faith in popular government and asserts that the discussion of other forms of politi- cal control has become wholly academic. He does not close his eyes however to the obstacles which democracy confronts. He shows this clearly in his calm, penetrating, and tolerant discussion of the ascendency of the capitalist class. His treatment of this ascendency is a singularly keen and clear piece of analysis. The subject of disorganization occupies four chapters which set forth in consider- able detail the consequences of social readjustment to the rapidly shifting conditions which modern life presents. The philosophy of poverty which Professor Cooley outlines is in close accord with the recently published lectures of Professor Devine on the "Causes of Misery." By both men a large percentage of responsibility is shifted from the individual to society, and the need for better adjustment and organization is emphatically asserted. The reader cannot fail to be impressed by the balanced judgment and tolerant spirit which Professor Cooley brings to his work. He does not falter or avoid the issue. His judgments are stated with definiteness and with courage but he never forgets that human nature is a product as well