An inquiry into the progress and condition of mechanics' and literary institutions, part II

Abstract

The former paper advocated the establishment of Institutions of a class which does not exist; the present treats of a class which not only exists, but is a very remarkable feature of the age. The facts connected with the inquiry must be interesting to a statistical society, as being indicative of the direction and degree of social progress; but the amount of immediate interest which the subject may elicit is a matter of minor importance, compared with the public advantage which may arise from directing to it the judgment and experience of a society so constituted as this, and which is every day becoming more influential. For Mechanics' and Literary Institutions not only afford, by their condition and progress, important evidence of the character and spirit of the nation and the epoch; but are, in the natural connection of cause and effect, powerful agents in the formation of that character and spirit. And although the immutable laws which govern the course of civilization are beyond your control, you may exercise a salutary influence over the means which are mediate between first causes and final results. In laying before you the principal general facts presented by a review of the Institutions, there will be some convenience in taking separately the three countries of the United Kingdom.