Page:The Wisconsin idea (IA cu31924032449252).pdf/25



reason for the Wisconsin legislative program is not hard to find. There is really but one cause and it presents but one problem, which is basic to all others, and no advancement of human welfare or progress of civilization can take place until a solution is found.

The problem is one with which the whole American people is grappling. It presents no particular mystery nor is it difficult to understand.

Take up any newspaper. What are the headlines?—Monopoly—Trusts—Trusts and the tariff—High cost of living—Predatory wealth.

Pick up a President’s message. Can there be any doubt about it? Always the same—something strong and oppressive, almost unreachable, in some way entangled with courts, lawyers and litigation—always having the power to attain its object—always possessing

Force? How can these things have Force? Have they armies, guns or the attributes of those who usually possess force? If not, how can they oppress?

Suppose when you went to buy food the man who had it asked you ten dollars when it was worth only one, and