Preface
3In recognition of the actual value of a novel product, we have our patent and copyright laws. Though an idea is but an abstract object, it is no less subject to the laws of individualism and property ownership than a material object. However, the world being very material in its considerations, it as yet gives no protection to abstract discoveries of organization method.
4 The higher the order of man, (that is the further he has progressed in the establishment of abstract values, and removed himself from bestial or material control) the more inherent in him is the respect for this abstract ownership.
5 A new idea may have been discovered in following the most common road of previously acknowledged truths, like many an oil well on oft traversed land, but as the oil well, it is rightfully the property of the individual within whose domain it has sprung. A truth once revealed cannot be repealed, and becomes so obvious, and its boundaries so abstract, that it is much more trespassed upon, by the world in general, than material possessions.
6 It is only on first revelation that a truth is obviously new. Its recurrence as an idea appears to be age old and common knowledge. That is the way of truth. It so thoroughly harmonizes within all the scope of our reason that it makes little note of its entry. On the other hand a warped truth or fallacy lingers long within our reasoning chambers and makes much impression. The truth loving, non-procrastinating, mind analyses to the end. The laggard mind merely marvels at the sensation set up by the discordant fallacy. In either case there is more sensation in the fallacious statement than in the truth. We constantly overlook the harmonious and important truth in life until, at some distance of time or space, our perspective is repaired.
7 As the jeweler might exhibit his stones for your consideration, we exhibit to you new ideas. The ideas herein presented have been purchased at heavy cost of abstract experience and material forfeiture. This is their first public disclosure. Inasmuch as they are being sent to you in esteem of your criticism, it is sincerely hoped that you in turn, if impressed with the value of their disclosures will return as your acknowledgment such comments as you may wish to make, either for public quotation or private consumption. If you feel the situation and its projected fulfillment merits your moral support, we beg that we may have your comments for public quotation.