William harper's rationalization for the existence of slavery that slavery was a more humane and successful system than the economic system of the north. slaves were better off than the poor of the industrial north. that slavery was an improvement over living in africa, a country of "savage despotism." america was seen as a preferred environment, being an "enlightened christian" country. he stated, "in a word, our slaves are cheerful, contented, and happy". that the social order of the south and also the progress of civilization were both based on slavery. he believed that slavery created leisure time for a few who could then work in the arts and other areas to improve the culture of the nation.