The Humane Idea: A History of Man's Attitude Toward Animals and the Development of the Humane Spirit is a rare 1912 edition.The purpose of the book is to provide a general survey of the history of the humane idea as to be of service to those deeply interested in the cause that has for its aim the prevention of cruelty to animals and the fostering of such a sentiment as to ultimately end cruelty. The book discusses the humane idea as it pertains to primitive man, Hebrews, Greeks, Romans, early Christianity, and America.