The New Ideal in Education An Address Given Before the League of the Empire on July 16th, 1916

Facing the turmoil of 1916, the speaker argues that the roots of conflict lie in an education that celebrates the isolated individual above the common good. He traces this mindset to European philosophy and its spread across nations, suggesting that its selfish emphasis fuels rivalry and war. By contrasting this with the innocence of children, he presents them as the true hope for a different future.

The address outlines a vision of schooling that nurtures a shared humanity, encouraging cooperation, moral responsibility, and a sense of wonder at the world. It calls for institutions—from churches to governments—to work together in an international board that guides curricula toward peace and collective well‑being. The proposal promises a generation raised on mutual respect, ready to replace the old ideal with a new, pan‑humanistic education.