The Punishment of Children

This thoughtful guide explores how parents can shape a child’s moral character without resorting to harshness or neglect. Drawing on lectures once delivered to the Ethical Culture Society, the author argues that discipline is a delicate art—one that demands consistency, kindness, and a clear sense of purpose. By presenting a middle path between severity and indifference, the book invites caregivers to reflect on their own attitudes and to foster a household atmosphere where ethical growth feels natural rather than forced.

Central to the discussion is a simple yet powerful rule: never administer punishment while angry. Using vivid historical examples, such as the infamous Roman slave‑owner who let fury dictate his cruelty, the author illustrates how impulse can distort judgment and damage relationships. Instead, he encourages proportionate responses that match the seriousness of a child’s misstep, urging parents to pause, consider the underlying cause, and choose corrective measures that build respect rather than resentment.