The Problem of the Unemployed (1905)
Anonymous (H. F. Ring)

It demonstrates with mathematical certainty the cause of dull times and involuntary idleness. It shows why improvements in labor-saving machinery fail to increase wages and lessen the intensity of the struggle for existence.
It points to the remedy; a remedy beneficial alike to employer and employee ;
a remedy which could be adopted without confiscating private property
or even impairing its selling value.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE
The Problem of the Unemployed, though an intensely interesting discussion of the most important problem confronting our civilization, is nevertheless a cold-blooded work on political economy, entirely devoid of sentiment.

While it discloses the simple and easily understood natural laws which control the distribution of wealth,the subject is not confused by advocacy of socialism,
the single tax or any other so-called reforms. The underlying cause of industrial disease is clearly pointed out. The remedy which would cure it is shown. But the author claims that it is shown for the purpose of proving by setting forth the effects which would follow its adoption, that his diagnosis of the disease is correct. To the statesman and the politician is left the task of determining the possibility and the practicability of securing popular assent to legislation which would cure the disease.

Hence liberal-minded people of all shades of economic opinion cordially recommend the book as, in the language of Mr. Chief Justice Pleasants, “A clear and forcible presentation of a question of most vital interest to society.”

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