<p>This study examines several of the most formative years in the life of an exceptional man and offers a contribution to the history of pacifism, making use of extensive hitherto unused archival sources. By 1914 Bertrand Russell seemed to be settling into a distinguished academic career. He was a Liberal idealist, reasonably satisfied with his environment and his view of the future, but in some ways lacking self-confidence. The war overthrew Russell's rationality-ordered world. He found himself possessed by a passionate conviction that it was a consummate evil. The study first traces his protest against British intervention, his efforts to influence American opinion, and his work for the Union of Democratic Control during late 1914 and 1915. Meanwhile he came to terms (with difficulty) with his own anger at the statesmen he held responsible, forsook Liberalism for socialism, and developed a philosophy of life and politics that took account of impulse as a factor in human motivation. But his desire for a radical means to oppose the war remained unsatisfied until conscription came in early 1916, when he threw himself into the resistance of the No-Conscription Fellowship. Russell saw the conscientious objectors' struggle as the beginning of a movement that might end the war and bring a new and peaceful world. He gave himself totally to the cause, working enthusiastically wherever needed, and speaking out in a way that exposed him to considerable legal and personal harassment. His contribution in the difficult decisions faced by the leaders was great, and he was profoundly affected by the close working association. New light is shed on the problems of alternative service and the use of political pressure, and Russell is shown learning a new compassion and tolerance. The hopes of 1916 were not fulfilled and 1917 found Russell soberly undertaking the responsibility of the N.C.F. chairmanship. The Russian revolution revitalised pacifist hopes and radicalised Russell's thinking, but when the expected new world did not follow, he came to think the usefulness of those identified with pacifism was now limited. After anonymously assisting certain new voices of protest, he planned a return to philosophical work, which he believed to be the contribution now demanded from him toward the furthering of civilisation. A late and unwelcome prosecution for his pacifist activity intervened and it was in prison that he renewed his serious study of philosophy. We find Russell in 1918 with a more realistic view of human nature, with a new self-confidence, with hope and a serious purpose for the future but without facile optimism, and with a dedication to education and political vigilance which was not to leave him during his life.</p> / Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:mcmaster.ca/oai:macsphere.mcmaster.ca:11375/13740 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Newberry, Jo |
| Contributors | McCready, H.W., History |
| Source Sets | McMaster University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | thesis |
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