Perfecʹtionists

A society founded by Father Noyes in Oneida Creek. They take St. Pàul for their law-giver, but read his epistles in a new light. They reject all law, saying the guidance of the Spirit is superior to all human codes. If they would know how to act in matters affecting others, they consult “public opinion,” expressed by a committee; and the “law of sympathy” so expressed is their law of action. In material prosperity, this society is unmatched by all the societies of North America. (W. Hepworth Dixon: New America, vii. 20, 21.)