The age-old question (Gen. 4:9), "Am I my brother's keeper?" propounded by Cain in his own defense, has recurred periodically and frequently through the centuries. The human answer to it has varied according to the standpoint of the interested party. Speaking generally, the progress of civilization has tended to answer it more and more affirmatively, and there have resulted those systems of social security which place a responsibility on nations and peoples to care for the unfortunate, the unemployed, the elderly, and the sick. This is a tendency in the right direction, and goes to prove that the collective conscience of mankind is becoming awakened to a more unselfish view of its activities and responsibilities.
There is, however, a broader and higher view of the question and its correct answer, and this is to be found in the teachings of Christian Science, which propound the absolute or metaphysical standpoint. It is this standpoint that ultimately determines clearly and faithfully the attitude which brings help and healing to mankind. Without this correct vision of our relationship to others we are lost in materialistic systems and accordingly we suffer the consequences.
One of the most majestic and potent statements ever made is to be found in the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy (p. 151): "All that really exists is the divine Mind and its idea, and in this Mind the entire being is found harmonious and eternal."
