ABSTRACT
The distinct and separate ethical threads that are woven into a civilization are rarely of anonymous origin. They can usually be traced back to men of unusual insight into the requisites of good personal and social life. It is usual to explain the ethical monotheism of Israel by a Semitic genius for religion. But, as a matter of fact, the religions of other Semitic stocks, such as Phoenicia, Moab, or Edom. The romantic ideal of love we owe to an artistic elite, the Troubadours. Arising from the sentiments felt by wandering lyrists for great ladies far above them in social position, this ideal was spread by their songs through the castles and courts of mediaeval Europe. It is perhaps in respect to men's valuations rather than their ideals that the influence of an elite is most marked. The prophet is the master of enthusiasms and detestations; but to the superior class it is given to modify the estimates of men.
