to THE AUSTRALIAN
     Kevin Donnelly comments (‘Barbarians at the door after the left’s long march’, 18/10) that ‘the cultural left controls the academy’. Judging by the likelihood of a ‘yes’ victory in the marriage postal vote and by the collapse of the Liberal Party as a defender of conservatism, it seems that the left is gaining control of the nation. Why has this happened and what should traditionalists do about it?
     The industrial revolution, the huge growth of cities, the squalid conditions of urban living, the development of mass education, the psychology and behaviour patterns of left-wing agitators (whose disgruntlement leads to a will-to-destroy) and the pseudo-religion of egalitarianism and ‘democracy’ have all combined to produce this tide of communistic barbarianism.
     The ruthless nature of the financial system and large corporations has provided ample targets for the leftist indignation.
     Only a revival of faith on a large scale can stem the tide. This does not mean adherence to antiquated beliefs and theologies. It means a rebirth of imagination, of attunement of human souls to the beyond, of renewed emphasis on a wisdom that comes from ‘the peace that surpasses logical understanding’.  Poetry, the culture of books, music and the fine arts, protection of the natural environment and the honouring of romantic love can all assist in a renaissance.
     NJ, Belgrave, Vic