Читать книгу Industrial Progress and Human Economics - James Hartness - Страница 5

Table of Contents

Our nearness to these industrial states give us an advantage over more remote states, but it is not sufficient in itself to bring our share of industrial expansion. Nevertheless it is one of the greatest advantages and constitutes one of the strong points on which we base our faith in our plan for greater industrial development.

The next element to nearness to existing plants is the spirit and understanding of the people. Vermont has the best spirit of industry but has not the fullest conception of industrial life and opportunity. It is this purpose of setting forth the principles of desirable industrial life that constitutes the next step.

When these principles are understood, we will improve the chances for the acquisition of local industries through the coming of others from nearby states or by the establishment of new plants by some of our own people who are already well qualified to carry forward such enterprise. But whether it is brought about by these or any other means, the basic principle on which successful industries are built must be known and must constitute the policy of organization and management.

The principles set forth are basic. They constitute the necessary addition of the practical knowledge of invention, management and general business knowledge gained in existing plants.

Industrial life calls for the best that is found in brain, enterprise and ability and should have every possible aid and cooperation. Furthermore it should be protected from impractical promoters, impractical managers and obstructive theorists.

It is actual work and accomplishment that counts. The workers and those who lead and cooperate with them should not have their combined efforts handicapped by those who have never done actual work or who have never been performing an essential service.

Indifference and misdirection are our greatest enemies in times of peace. These hinder our growth and if allowed to exist, will ultimately lead to our becoming a subservient people.

We are all ready to accept these facts but may differ as to the best ways to use our energies.

We are already making good progress in various branches of agriculture, granite and marble work, and in various branches of manufacturing of wood, textiles and metal, but a direct comparison with our manufacturing states shows that we do not bring into the state an adequate return for our labor.

Many of our young people migrate to more remunerative kinds of work in other states, and as already stated some of these Vermonters have led in the creation and upbuilding of great industrial establishments.

There are now many good chances to create new and energize our existing industries.

Some may ask why should we consider other industries when we can find many good opportunities in our present enterprises. The answer is that our people drift away to other states to get into these industries for there they have discovered that the best chance to produce a large value for a day's work is where best implements are used and where there is the best organization of workers.

They have found that in some respects we are lagging behind in the use of best methods and best implements.