We are on the whole rather an ignorant nation--probably not more so than others, if we except the Germans and possibly the Scandinavians.

We are not, as a rule, clear-headed or accurate thinkers, though we have generally a large fund of practical good sense.

We lack constructive imagination, but have a certain originality and real power of initiative in dealing with practical problems as they arise, and much dogged perseverance in "carrying a thing through." These, like most other general propositions, are subject to exceptions and open to many objections, but they contain a sufficient element of truth to be worth noting.
It is well plainly to recognise that if democracy is to be a blessing instead of a curse there are three conditions necessary to control and guide its action.

First, with the consciousness of power there must be a deep sense of responsibility.

Secondly, with freedom of action there must be a law-abiding spirit, a habit of obedience to those laws of action which control the arbitrary changeful will of the moment.