Culture and Anarchy · Chapter
Chapter II: Doing as One Likes and the Real Estate Intestacy Bill explained
Arnold critiques the Real Estate Intestacy Bill and the Liberal notion of 'doing as one likes,' arguing that such mechanical reforms fail to address deeper social ills.
What happens
Arnold critiques the Real Estate Intestacy Bill and the Liberal notion of 'doing as one likes,' arguing that such mechanical reforms fail to address deeper social ills. He contrasts the Barbarians' feudal landholding with the need for a disinterested, cultural approach that appeals to reason and consciousness, ultimately advocating for 'sweetness and light' over force.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and the 'Three Classes'
Arnold analyzes the Barbarians, Philistines, and Populace, showing how feudal landholding affects each class's welfare and ideals.
Critique of Liberalism and 'Doing as One Likes'
The chapter critiques the Liberal approach of mechanical reforms like the Real Estate Intestacy Bill, arguing for a deeper cultural and rational engagement.
Machinery vs. Ends
Arnold contrasts the 'machinery' of stock notions and legal reforms with the true end of human welfare and perfection.
Characters to notice
- Narrator
The narrator reflects on the Real Estate Intestacy Bill and the nature of rights, duties, and welfare.
- Mr. Bright
Mr. Bright is cited as a speaker who supported the Real Estate Intestacy Bill in the House of Commons.
- Barbarians
The Barbarians are the landholding class whose feudal habits and succession rules are critiqued.
- Philistine
The Philistines (middle class) are described as being misled by the false ideal of wealth and station.
- Bishop Wilson
Bishop Wilson is quoted: 'Riches are almost always abused without a very extraordinary grace.'
- Solomon
Solomon is referenced: 'As he who putteth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.'
Key passages
“Riches are almost always abused without a very extraordinary grace.”
Wealth is nearly always misused unless a person has exceptional moral strength.
Bishop Wilson's aphorism is used to critique the Barbarians' unearned privilege.
“As he who putteth a stone in a sling, so is he that giveth honour to a fool.”
Honoring a foolish person is as destructive as hurling a stone from a sling.
Solomon's proverb illustrates how the false ideal of wealth harms society.
“Pouvoir sans savoir est fort dangereux.”
Power without knowledge is very dangerous.
A French moralist's saying underscores the peril of inherited power in a settled society.