THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXII, Issue 18942, 13 February 1925, Page 8

THE LEAGUE OF NATIONS.

Thc lecture given by Mr. J. V. Wilson on the League of Nations serves to throw into luminous prominence the aims and tasks of the most ambitious attempt yet made, in the political realm, to set earth's house in order. Too little interest is taken in this colossal venture. From time to time there have been disparaging criticisms of the League's inability to enforce its opinions upon the world. Asa matter of fact, were the League to attempt the rolo of a super-State, qualified to impose its will upon all nations, it would be indistinguishable in practice from the earlier States that tried to establish a hegemony. All the nations attempting that have gone down before invincible protests. Europe particularly has been a stage for their tragic entrances and exits, separated by acts in which they have plotted and fought and legislated to assert themselves over others. That way ruin lies. A society aiming at good will among the nations must proceed itself on a principle of goodwill, not force. There is more than prophecy in the saying that he who takes the sword shall perish by the the sword. It is a truth rooted deep in human nature. The league's work for universal peace has not been as spectacular as it would have been if done in shining armour; but it is moro promising. And it has some fine political achievements to its credit already. Its humanitarian work has also opened a new era in concerted attack on disease and drugs, and its Labour Bureau is a splendid clearing-house in industrial affairs. It is sometimes complained, as Mr. Wilson indicated, that the League will be impotent because certain great Powers have hitherto held aloof from membership. There need be no trouble on that score. The League had to begin somewhere. Many wouid have liked to see it start off with every nation represented. In the circumstances, that was impossible. To combine in as full force as possible and to get on with the business without waiting for laggards was the only thing to do. The suggestion that the League of Nations Union should have wider support in this city is worth attention. Tho union can do much to disseminate facts and explain the League's programme.