Page:Roads to freedom.djvu/157

 man in any of the Western democracies is totally unlike that which is assumed in the Communist Manifesto. He does not by any means feel that he has nothing to lose but his chains, nor indeed is this true. The chains which bind Asia and Africa in subjection to Europe are partly riveted by him. He is himself part of a great system of tyranny and exploitation. Universal freedom would remove, not only his own chains, which are comparatively light, but the far heavier chains which he has helped to fasten upon the subject races of the world.

Not only do the working men of a country like England have a share in the benefit accruing from the exploitation of inferior races, but many among them also have their part in the capitalist system. The funds of Trade Unions and friendly societies are invested in ordinary undertakings, such as railways; many of the better-paid wage-earners have put their savings into Government securities; and almost all who are politically active feel themselves part of the forces that determine public policy, through the power of the Labour Party and the greater Unions. Owing to these causes, their outlook on life has become to a considerable extent impregnated with capitalism. And as their sense of power has grown, their internationalism has diminished. This must continue to be true of any internationalism which is based upon hatred of the capitalist and adherence to the doctrine of the class-war. Something more positive and constructive than this is needed if governing democracies are not to inherit the vices of governing classes in the past.