MODERN PROBLEMS OF THE CRAFT

MODERN PROBLEMS OF THE CRAFT

Author: Herbert Hungerford

Year: 1929

In this piece of architecture from 1929, author Herbert Hungerford answers sixteen challenging questions regarding his proposal for a program of "Popular Masonic education" designed for the average member. His responses serve to defend and clarify his position that such a program is the necessary solution for many of the fraternity's problems. Hungerford first addresses doubts about whether a problem truly exists within the Craft. While he acknowledges that Masonry is lived outside the lodge, he insists that a lodge is failing if its programs cannot attract more than a small fraction of its members. His primary concern is not about the quantity of members, but what he sees as a decline in the quality of Masonic activities. He strongly rejects the "high-brow" criticism that the problem is due to admitting men of "low grade intelligence," affirming that Masonry is a democratic institution for the common man. The author also defends his educational solution against various objections. He argues that focusing on the "rank and file" is essential, as the scholars and students of the Craft do not need the help. He clarifies that Masonic education is not a new idea, but a return to the fra