I know that [eugenics] numbers many disciples whose intentions are entirely innocent and humane; and who would be sincerely astonished at my describing it as I do. But that is only because evil always wins through the strength of its splendid dupes; and there has in all ages been a disastrous alliance between abnormal innocence and abnormal sin. Of these who are deceived I shall speak of course as we all do of such instruments; judging them by the good they think they are doing, and not by the evil which they really do.The point that struck me is that whenever a tyranny has been perpetrated, there are many who support the tyranny without understanding the consequences. We saw this in 1930’s Germany and we see this in the “politically correct” movement in the United States.
Chesterton is talking about Eugenics, but the same process is involved in every mass movement which perpetrates evil.
Those who choose to follow bear responsibility for their ignorance, willful or not. But the leaders who pursue evil and perpetrate evil bear a greater responsibility. This is why we are warned in James 3:1 that those who abuse their power will be judged more strictly.
Watch for another Chesterton quote tomorrow.
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