Meaning: This quote by Elihu Root, a prominent lawyer and statesman, speaks to the idea that the most straightforward path for progress in civilization is to transform theoretical ideas into reality through the growing strength of public opinion worldwide. It suggests that public opinion has the power to shape and drive the advancement of civilization. In this interpretation, Root emphasizes the influential role that public opinion plays in shaping the course of human development and progress.

Elihu Root was a distinguished figure in American legal and political history. He served as the Secretary of War under President William McKinley and President Theodore Roosevelt, and later as the Secretary of State under Roosevelt. Root was also a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in promoting international arbitration and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

In the context of this quote, Root's background as a lawyer and statesman sheds light on his perspective on the role of public opinion in the progress of civilization. Root likely understood the significance of public sentiment in shaping laws, policies, and international relations. His experience in navigating the complexities of governance and diplomacy likely influenced his belief in the power of public opinion to drive societal change.

Root's emphasis on the "line of least resistance" suggests that he saw public opinion as a force that naturally guides the trajectory of civilization. The phrase "theoretical postulate" implies that there are abstract ideas or principles that underpin the advancement of society, and Root posits that these ideas can be realized through the increasing force of public opinion. In other words, he believed that public opinion has the capacity to turn theoretical concepts into tangible, real-world outcomes.

The notion of "continually increasing force of the world's public opinion" points to the global nature of this phenomenon. Root's choice of words suggests that he recognized the growing interconnectedness of the world and the expanding reach of public opinion across borders. This interconnectedness has only been amplified in the modern era with advancements in communication, technology, and social media, which have allowed public opinion to transcend geographical boundaries and influence international discourse.

Root's quote also raises questions about the mechanisms through which public opinion exerts its influence on the progress of civilization. How does public opinion manifest itself in shaping societal norms, policies, and international relations? What factors contribute to the increasing force of world public opinion? These are important considerations in understanding the dynamics of societal change and progress.

In summary, Elihu Root's quote underscores the pivotal role of public opinion in driving the progress of civilization. Root's background as a lawyer and statesman lends credibility to his perspective, and his emphasis on the global impact of public opinion resonates in today's interconnected world. This quote prompts us to consider the profound influence of public sentiment on the trajectory of human development and the realization of theoretical principles in the real world.