Genre:

Extract, Discourse

Publications extracted:

Everett 1832

Subjects:

Progress, Invention, Education, Reading, Class

    Observes that the 'progress of invention and improvement has been, especially of late years, prodigiously rapid'. Argues that such knowledge dwells in 'the minds of the present generation of men', and that although it is 'recorded in books, or embodied in the various works and structures of man', these are nothing unless they are read and understood. Urges that the present generation will soon pass, and that it is therefore necessary that its knowledge should be acquired by the next generation unless it is to be 'lost for ever'. (94) Argues that 'it depends mainly on each individual, what part he will bear in the accomplishment of this great work'. Asserts the progressive tendency of knowledge, and argues that knowledge is a 'patrimony' that is 'shared out anew' in each generation, referring approvingly of the 'system of free schools'. (95)