The Little Review, May 1914 (Vol. 1., No. 3) — John Shaqi
The Little Review, May 1914 (Vol. 1., No. 3)Various
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The Little Review, May 1914 (Vol. 1., No. 3)
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Literature, Modern -- 20th century -- Periodicals
Dr. Flexner nowhere raises any question as to how far European
experience is significant for America, but it is inevitable that the
reader should form certain conclusions of his own. Much of the book is
devoted to the relative merits of the two systems of handling
prostitution now prevalent in Europe: regulation and so-called
"abolition." The weight of evidence is overwhelmingly on the side of
abolition. Regulation is left without a leg to stand on. This, however,
is not a burning issue in America. The New York Committee of Fifteen
decided, years ago, that "regulation does not regulate," and such has
been the general opinion in the United States. But the remainder of the
book and much that is brought out in the discussion of regulation can be
of great service.
It is impossible to summarize here a book so rich both in thought and
material. But one thing may be said for the encouragement of future
readers: There is in this volume absolutely no trace of the hysteria so
prevalent today, and on the other hand, no trace of the morbid dwelling
on details from which even some of our official investigations have
unfortunately not been free. There is in the entire book not a detailed
account of an individual case to turn the stomach. Yet the opinion of
every prominent expert in Europe is given, and a calm, scientific
attitude is maintained throughout. We are, as Jane Addams has so aptly
expressed it, "facing an ancient evil with a new conscience," and this
book of Dr. Flexner's is the embodied voice of that conscience. This is
his last word on the subject:
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