The National Being · Chapter
Chapter XX explained
The chapter argues that Ireland's lack of organic unity stems from economic individualism, and proposes the cooperative movement as the only means to achieve economic solidarity and national harmony.
What happens
The chapter argues that Ireland's lack of organic unity stems from economic individualism, and proposes the cooperative movement as the only means to achieve economic solidarity and national harmony. It calls on churches, poets, artists, and thinkers to help create a spiritual and economic basis for a unified national being, warning against indifference and sectarianism.
Themes in this chapter
Cooperative Economics and Rural Community
The chapter centers on the cooperative movement as the key to overcoming economic individualism and achieving organic unity in Ireland.
Spiritual vs. Material Forces in Civilization
The narrator argues that spiritual life is undermined by material competition, and that poets and artists must help create ideals to dominate society.
Role of Artists and Thinkers in Nation-Building
The chapter appeals to poets, writers, and thinkers to contribute to the national being by creating images of desirable life and inspiring collective ideals.
Characters to notice
- Unknown Narrator
The narrator presents the argument for cooperative economics and national unity, addressing churches, poets, and thinkers.
- Christ
Referenced in the context of early Christian communal living and the spiritual bread that Christ wished followers to aspire to.
Key passages
“What really prevents an organic unity in Ireland is the economic individualism of our lives.”
The main obstacle to Ireland becoming a unified whole is the way people pursue their own economic interests separately.
Central thesis of the chapter linking economic behavior to national fragmentation.
“The cooperative movement alone of all movements in Ireland has aspired to make an economic solidarity in Ireland.”
Only the cooperative movement has tried to create a shared economic foundation for the country.
Highlights the unique role of cooperatives in the narrator's vision.
“I beseech audience not only of the churches, but of the poets, writers, and thinkers of Ireland for their aid in this labor.”
I ask not just religious leaders but also artists and intellectuals to help with this work.
Appeal to cultural and spiritual leaders to join the cooperative effort.