"I was induced to establish several orders of merit, from conviction that emulation, well directed, becomes a useful servant; and, that the latent genius of some youth is more easily brought into action this way, than by the more sordid gratification of self-interest"

Joseph Lancaster's quote speaks with the power of inspiration and recognition. He believed that by developing orders of merit, he might encourage individuals to pursue quality and highlight the very best in them. He saw that competition, when properly directed, might be an effective tool for inspiring people to reach their full capacity. He likewise understood that providing recognition for achievement might be more reliable than depending on material benefits. By producing these orders of benefit, he hoped to encourage people to work hard and attain terrific things. His quote is a suggestion that recognition and inspiration can be powerful tools for inspiring people to reach their objectives.