Others, although men of inferior achievement, are patriotic and well-intentioned in feeling; and they may little by little be brought to believe that patriotism in a democracy demands the sacrifice of selfish interests and the regeneration of individual rights.

Men of this stamp can be made willing prisoners by able and aggressive leaders whose achievements have given them personal authority and whose practical programme is based upon a sound knowledge of the necessary limits of immediate national action.

The disinterested and competent individual is formed for constructive leadership, just as the less competent and independent, but well-intentioned, individual is formed more or less faithfully to follow on behind.

Such leadership, in a country whose traditions and ideals are sincerely democratic, can scarcely go astray.
V CONSTRUCTIVE INDIVIDUALISM The preceding section was concluded with a statement, which the majority of its readers will find extremely questionable and which assuredly demands some further explanation.

Suppose it to be admitted that individual Americans do seek the increase of their individuality by competent and disinterested special work.