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A Life Dedicated

Left to Right: Fritz Schumacher, Robert Swann, and George Wald (Nobel Prize Winning physicist) at New Alchemy Institute, Cape Cod (1974).

“For centuries men have attempted to change human attitudes, to achieve disarmament agreements, to promote international understanding and cooperation.  But little attempt has been made, and except in a nationalistic framework, almost no success has been achieved, in eliminating poverty, exploitation, and imperialism.  In my opinion, only an economic program can reach to the heart of the world peace problem.

Whatever approach to the economic situation we wish to take, it must be in a non-national context.  Our vision should encompass the world as a whole.  It should be a cooperative vision concerned with all of mankind, excluding none, and should focus upon the task of bringing justice through non-violent means.”

-Robert Swann in his 1966 essay, “The Economics of Peace,” published in London’s Peace News.

“I believe all conscientious objectors, no matter what position they take (whether to go to jail or not) feel this strong connection to one another, just as people who turn out for a demonstration, a vigil, or a march feel a sense of community.  But the higher the risk of sacrifice, the stronger the feeling . . .  The Depression had changed our world view and had strengthened our resolve not to follow an individualistic path, but to work together and find a new, less explored path.”

-Robert Swann writing of his decision to become a non-cooperating objector to the draft during World War II which led to a federal prison term.  From his autobiography Peace, Civil Rights, and the Search for Community, written between 1998 and 2002.

A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, February 22, 2003 at 2:00 PM at the First Congregational Church, Main Street, Great Barrington, Massachusetts. If time, distance, and responsibilities permit, please join us there to honor Bob’s life and work.

For the board, staff, and volunteers of the Schumacher Center, and for myself, a sincere thanks for the many expressions of sympathy and for the generous contributions to the Robert Swann Memorial Fund, established to continue his legacy.

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