Twenty Years at Hull House · Chapter
A Decade of Economic Discussion explained
This chapter describes the decade of 1890-1900 in Chicago as a period of intense economic and social discussion, centered around the Working People's Social Science Club at Hull House.
What happens
This chapter describes the decade of 1890-1900 in Chicago as a period of intense economic and social discussion, centered around the Working People's Social Science Club at Hull House. Jane Addams reflects on the radicalism, the defense of free speech, and the diverse beliefs among residents and visitors, highlighting the tension between business interests and social reformers. The chapter emphasizes the provisional nature of social progress and the importance of open debate.
Themes in this chapter
Class and Economic Inequality
The chapter explores the divide between business interests and social reformers, and the radical critiques of capitalism and industrial monopolies.
Democracy and Civic Engagement
The Working People's Social Science Club exemplifies democratic debate and free speech as a means to address social ills and foster civic participation.
Social Reform and the Settlement Movement
Hull House serves as a platform for social discussion and reform, embodying the settlement movement's commitment to addressing urban poverty and inequality.
Characters to notice
- Jane Addams
Narrator and founder of Hull House, reflecting on the decade of economic discussion and her own struggles with socialism and free speech.
- Florence Kelley
A resident who translated Engels' 'Conditions of the Working Class in England' and was read out of the Socialist Party due to suspicion of her fluent English.
- Mr. Stead
An astute English visitor who commented on the uniformity of American cities and their lack of regulated legislation.
- Lyman Gage
A leading citizen who presided over Sunday evening open meetings at the auditorium, encouraging free speech after the Haymarket riot.
Key passages
“The decade between 1890–1900 was, in Chicago, a period of propaganda as over against constructive social effort; the moment for marching and carrying banners, for stating general principles and making a demonstration, rather than the time for uncovering the situation and for providing the legal measures and the civic organization through which new social hopes might make themselves felt.”
The 1890s in Chicago were more about spreading ideas and making public statements than about implementing practical reforms or building the legal and civic structures needed to realize social hopes.
Addams contrasts the era's emphasis on propaganda and demonstration with later, more concrete social efforts.
“Fanaticism is engendered only when men, finding no contradiction to their theories, at last believe that the very universe lends itself as an exemplification of one point of view.”
People become fanatical when they never hear opposing views, leading them to think the whole universe supports their single perspective.
Addams argues that open debate prevents fanaticism by exposing people to contradictory ideas.
“A Settlement is above all a place for enthusiasms, a spot to which those who have a passion for the equalization of human joys and opportunities are early attracted.”
A settlement house is primarily a hub for passionate people who are dedicated to making human joys and opportunities more equal.
Addams defines the settlement's role as attracting those with a zeal for social equality.