Work: A natural responsibility

In recent generations, those with inherited or accumulated wealth were the main source of people who worked without financial reward either spasmodically or full‐time in charitable activities or social reform. Although it has become fashionable in some circles to decry this effort as only paternalistic (or conscience salving), it remains true that much social progress was instigated through the efforts of the able members in this group. It is relevant to note their willingness to make an effort. Today, there is a new potential source of people who are able to ‘work’ without direct financial reward: those for instance who are getting unemployment and/or social security benefit. They could create a new impetus for social and economic progress in society. But, if this impetus is to be constructive, then attitudes and ideas have to change — and change quickly.