Main Text
On May 18th, 1848, Albert, the Prince Consort, gave a speech to the Society For Improving the Condition of the Labouring Classes. He began by firmly dismissing the idea that the governing class and the working class have little in common. If that is so, he said, it is because of ignorance, not Providence.
Depend upon iy, the interests of classes too often contrasted are identical, and it is only ignorance which prevents their uniting for each other’s advantage. To dispel that ignorance, to show how man can help man, notwithstanding the complicated state of civilized society, ought to be the aim of every philanthropic person, but it is more peculiarly the duty of those who, under the blessing of Divine Providence, enjoy station, wealth, and education.
Let them be careful, however, to avoid any dictatorial interference with labour and employment, which frightens away capital, destroys that freedom of thought and independence of action which must remain to every one if he is to work out his own happiness, and impairs that confidence under which alone engagements for mutual benefit are possible.
