The Growth of the World Community

Abstract

Although the traditional Cold War may now ap pear less menacing than it once did, there remain many conflicts inherent within the existing world scene: the divisions of emerg ing continental groups, of the new nationalism that the end of imperialism has created, and of nation classes at different levels of economic growth. Men have long dreamed of creating a powerful international authority that might subdue such con flicts, but any effective move in this direction must recognize the conditions imposed by the facts of national power and loyalty. What is required is an increase not in the power but in the influence of international bodies. This might be achieved through a more deliberate attempt by these to define and publicize principles of international conduct which international organs could consistently uphold and enforce. International activities in the field of arms control could be extended. The functional services provided by international bodies could be strengthened. Above all, more effective measures of inter national redistribution could be effected. But there must also be adjustments in the attitude and policies of the nations and individuals that constitute the international community. This may be encouraged, on the one hand, by publicity and other activities by international bodies and, on the other, by measures instituted within the national units themselves.