Editorial October 23, 1902 Issue

Christian Citizenship

We are sometimes asked what is the duty of Christian Scientists regarding politics, and how much part should they take as individuals in national, state, and municipal elections. It would seem that there can be but one answer; namely, it is the plain duty of every citizen to participate in the government of his country, and he is the best citizen who most carefully, prayerfully, and punctually exercise the right of suffrage. This does not mean that the admittedly undesirable in political methods shall be perpetuated, nor that blind and unreasoning partisanship shall govern our actions. Right thinking and right acting must be paramount in the domain of public affairs: and in order to bring about this condition, rightly directed individual effort is required.

It is the duty of every good citizen to do his share toward the election of men of unselfish motives and sterling integrity, for just and wise laws and their fearless administration are essential to public welfare. Consistent Christian Scientists are well qualified to perform this duty, and the plea that they do not approve of methods now in vogue, or that the heat and turmoil of the ordinary political campaign is distasteful to them, is not a valid excuse. To stand aloof will not cure the evil. If practical politics are not what they should be, the blame is largely with those who decry present methods without taking active steps to correct them. Ambition and selfish desire for private gain have no place in the ideal social condition. If political methods and conditions are to be improved, the change must come through the individual whose ballot is cast unselfishly, whose every thought is one of love for his fellows, and whose every desire is for the establishment of Christ's kingdom. M.

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