An Essay on the Evils of Popular Ignorance

The author argues that widespread lack of education among lower social classes produces vice, irreligion, and misery, and insists that moral, religious, and civic leaders should advocate for popular instruction. Writing from a public-address perspective, he criticizes states that prioritize vanity and ambition over public enlightenment, rebukes those who forbid religious critique of policy, and exposes opponents of mass education as shortsighted. He concentrates on moral consequences rather than detailed reform plans, urging that neglect of popular improvement constitutes a national guilt and requires urgent attention.