Back of it all is the underlying assumption that the American nation by taking thought can add a cubit to its stature,--an absolute confidence in the power of the idea to create its own object and in the efficacy of good intentions.
Do we lack culture?
We will "make it hum" by founding a new university in Chicago.

Is American art neglected and impoverished?
We will enrich it by organizing art departments in our colleges, and popularize it by lectures with lantern slides and associations for the study of its history.

Is New York City ugly?
Perhaps, but if we could only get the authorities to appropriate a few hundred millions for its beautification, we could make it look like a combination of Athens, Florence, and Paris.

Is it desirable for the American citizen to be something of a hero?
I will encourage heroes by establishing a fund whereby they shall be rewarded in cash.

War is hell, is it?
I will work for the abolition of hell by calling a convention and passing a resolution denouncing its iniquities.