The British Way

Abstract

ONE of the reasons commonly advanced in pressing for a statement of Allied war aims is that such a statement contributes powerfully to the stimulation of the maximum war effort by its effect on morale. It would be unwise to discount that effort unduly, and the Prime Minister's recent broadcast speech is at least in part an admission of its importance. A no less potent source of inspiration for the war effort is, however, to be drawn from the British achievement in the past. We are slowly becoming aware that our habit of self-depreciation is apt to have untoward consequences. To say the least, it does not promote understanding and smooth co-operation with others of the United Nations, particularly with the U.S.S.R. or even with the United States. Persistently to understate our effort and capacity is to play into the hands of our opponents and present them with opportunities for suggesting that our contribution to the common cause is negligible, or that we are allowing our allies to bear more than their share of the burden. The British Way 1: A Comment on British Democracy. By Sir Hector Hetherington. Pp. 48. 2: The Temper of British Ideals. By Prof. John Laird. Pp. 51. 3: The British Method of Government. By A. K. White. Pp. 63. 4: British Political Institutions. By Prof. Andrew Browning. Pp. 52. 5: The British Way in World Trade. By Dr. Alec L. Macfie. Pp. 64. (Glasgow : Craig and Silson, Ltd., 1943.) 1s. each.