The Abolition of Man

‘Children, the old, the poor, etc. should be considered as lords of the atmosphere.’ (Hindu. Janet, i. 8.)

‘To marry and to beget children.’ (Greek. List of duties. Epictetus, III. vii.)

‘Can you conceive an Epicurean commonwealth? . . . What will happen? Whence is the population to be kept up? Who will educate them? Who will be Director of Adolescents? Who will be Director of Physical Training? What will be taught?’ (Greek. Ibid.)

‘Nature produces a special love of offspring’ and ‘To live according to Nature is the supreme good.’ (Roman. Cicero, De Off. I. iv, and De Legibus, I. xxi.)

‘The second of these achievements is no less glorious than the first; for while the first did good on one occasion, the second will continue to benefit the state forever.’ (Roman. Cicero, De Off. I. xxii.)

‘Great reverence is owed to a child.’ (Roman. Juvenal, xiv. 47.)

‘The Master said, Respect the young.’ (Ancient Chinese. Analects, ix. 22.)

‘The killing of the women and more especially of the young boys and girls who are to go to make up the future strength of the people, is the saddest part . . . and we feel it very sorely.’ (Redskin. Account of the Battle of Wounded Knee. ERE v. 432.)