Georgist Self Developement

I have been thinking of ways a person can progress  in their own understanding of economic rent and the land question. I believe there are a number of ways we can learn more even those who have largely “seen the cat”. A quality photograph or landscape painting is one that entices one to keep looking at it, our eyes move around and around it. By analogy, it should be possible to gain a deeper insight into the nature of society and economic rent with some persistence. At some stage or other I think the Association’s course , Economics for those Seeking Justice is indispensable for making some headway . I am a tutor of this course .The Association’s pamphlets also have a place for those new to the ideas. They can be fine “snacks” when we could be vacantly looking out of a train window. Good Government  articles are important  too even if we have to endure some mindless TV filler program in the background. I would urge those still new to the ideas of George to persevere and if time does not permit them to read it thoughtfully or at least endeavour to do so.

The Association runs excellent talks and seminars from time to time such as the recent The Prophet of San Francisco.  These have helped me a lot over the years and they are also are a chance to socialise with other Georgists.  We don’t talk about Georgism all the time, after all friendship should be the oil of any worthwhile society. Those with queries or can usually be helped by a kind of peer tutoring by the “old hands”. A teachers course may be of benefit too even if you don’t want to tutor  in the formal courses.

There are quite a few contemporary Georgists who have written fine books. Sometimes they are easier to understand than “ straight” Henry  George . I subscribe to the something is better than  nothing philosophy. Read a few chapters that excite your attention or curiosity. In time you may make an assault on the whole work. We  have these books for sale as well as loan to those who are coming back .The current tutors are happy to have past students sit in on a course gratis. You may be able to help serving   tea and coffee and help make some of the new students feel welcome. “Would that all the people were prophets” was the cry of a biblical prophet and could be our desire as well.

   Serious reading of George and prominent current day Georgists should be the goal for those with the opportunities. I believe reading George himself , the primary  source, is important. A path could start with his speeches then some of his more readable books or even parts of his famous Progress and Poverty . How about listening to the Condition of Labour on CD beautifully read by Ron Haddrick, even while driving in the car? One could after  some time actually try  studying books such as  The Science of Political Economy. Attractive modern editions of George’s works are available for sale or even loan for those attending a series of talks. The Schalkenbach Foundation Internet site is just one that offers some internet courses drawing on principal  texts of George .

I hope these suggestions help you whatever stage you are at and others will have their  own ideas which they might like to share.