A Voice from the South: By a Black Woman of the South

Cooper describes a solitary figure who symbolizes an intellectual contemplating humanity. That thinker is full of “speculative unbelief” and “unimpassioned agnosticism” looking down on “struggling, working, believing humanity” (167). Cooper mentions the works of people like Richter, Hume, Conte, Mill, Huxley, Spencer, and Lewes, criticizing philosophical ideas of agnosticism, skepticism, and positivism. Cooper’s thinking is hinged upon “God” and “Love,” as she states that positions like agnosticism offer nothing to humanity.

For Cooper, such philosophical ideas inhibit growth and self-development, as the possibility of eternity is excluded. Faith is significant for Cooper, as it instills the values of heroism, sacrifice, and devotion in people. Faith is power and reinforces “the eternal development of the best in man” (173). She urges philosophers and thinkers of the time to put their words into action and not treat African Americans as a “problem.” Ultimately, with faith, nations can find the way to light and move forward, believing that anything can be achieved.