Article January 16, 1909 Issue

Dr. George Cutton, the University of Chicago professor...

Toledo (O.) Times

Dr. George Cutton, the University of Chicago professor who assailed Christian Science in his recent lecture in Toledo, went a step too far when he branded the views of Mrs. Eddy as "hodgepodge." If the distinguished gentleman were convinced of the truth of his statement, he surely possesses enough common sense to know that he lowered the dignity of his discourse by personal abuse. His contempt for a book which is recognized to-day as a masterpiece on the subject of Christian healing, and which has done more to revolutionize the thought of mankind than any work of recent years, his utter disregard of the personal convictions of others, has made him the logical target of scores of Toledo people who do not accept the teachings of Christian Science.

However deeply rooted one's convictions may be as to the value of Mrs. Eddy's work, the fact remains that this book, which is accepted by her followers as a spiritual interpretation of the Bible, has brought more comfort to the suffering, has alleviated more pain, has uplifted and upbuilded more men and women than all the medical treatises in the average physician's library. Had the volume done nothing more than set men to thinking, it would be given a high place of honor in the world of literature, but the work is used as a commentary and key to the Scriptures by Christian Scientists. The Chicago professor shows very little respect for the Christian Science church and for Mrs. Eddy when he condemns a work and a movement which has done so much good and is based on such sacred teaching. Had he referred to any other church the members of that church would have been up in arms and made it decidedly interesting for him. The only consoling thought is that after all the address is but one man's personal abuse, and it should be treated accordingly.

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