The New State · Chapter
XXXIII: Increasing Recognition of the Occupational Group explained
The chapter examines the growing importance of occupational groups in political organization, weighing them against neighborhood groups and arguing for an integration of both.
What happens
The chapter examines the growing importance of occupational groups in political organization, weighing them against neighborhood groups and arguing for an integration of both. It discusses the need for strong corporate bodies to serve the state, critiques pluralistic tendencies that would weaken state power, and highlights wartime developments in England and America where labor is gaining representation in industrial control. The author warns against group selfishness and calls for a new conception of the state where labor sees its role within the whole.
Themes in this chapter
Integration of Occupational and Neighborhood Groups
The chapter argues for integrating occupational and neighborhood groups, not choosing one over the other, to achieve full representation.
The Unifying State vs. Political Pluralism
The author rejects pluralistic weakening of the state, advocating instead for strong groups that minister to a unified state.
Neighborhood Organization as the Political Unit
Neighborhood groups are seen as essential for correcting partial views and coordinating diverse associations.
Characters to notice
- Narrator
The author presents the analysis and argument throughout the chapter.
- We the People
Referenced as 'we' in discussing the need for integration and experimentation.
- Benoist
Cited for his plea that politics must represent 'la vie' through the occupational group.
- President Wilson
Mentioned in context of the President's Mediation Commission recognizing collective bargaining.
Key passages
“The power of an individual is his power to live a vital group life.”
An individual's strength comes from their ability to participate actively in meaningful group associations.
Highlights the core belief in group life as the source of individual power.
“Individualism and concentrated authority have been struggling for supremacy with us since the beginning of our government. That synthesis is to be found in the recognition of organized groups, but not, I believe, by taking away power from the state and giving to the group.”
The historical conflict between individual rights and central authority can be resolved through organized groups that strengthen rather than weaken the state.
Articulates the author's middle path between individualism and state power.
“Labor needs leaders today who are alive not to the needs of labor, but to the needs of the whole state: then it will be seen as a corollary how labor fits in.”
Labor leaders should prioritize the overall needs of the state, and labor's proper role will naturally follow.
Emphasizes a holistic view of labor's integration into the state.