Subject
Poor -- Great Britain Books
Best books
Sidney Webb
English Poor Law Policy
"English Poor Law Policy" by Sidney Webb and Beatrice Webb is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to analyze and elucidate the evolution of English Poor Law policy, particularly following the significant reforms initiated in 1834. It delves into the intricate legislative and administrative frameworks that govern the relief of the destitute, highlighting the notable changes and key principles that have emerged over time. The opening of the work serves as a comprehensive preface, laying the groundwork for the authors' analysis of the English Poor Law system. It underscores the necessity of understanding the policy's historical context to appreciate its current form and implications. The authors express a commitment to systematically dissect the developments from 1834 onward, cautioning the reader that while the resulting document may seem dense, it is vital for grasping the significant changes in the treatment of various classes of paupers, including the able-bodied, vagrants, and families. The preface highlights their goal of providing clarity amidst a complex archive of legislative materials, setting the stage for a meticulous chronological exploration of the Poor Law's evolution.
William Booth
In Darkest England, and the Way Out
"In Darkest England, and the Way Out" by William Booth is a social reform proposal published in 1890. The founder of the Salvation Army presents a bold vision to address Victorian England's poverty crisis, comparing conditions in industrialized London to "Darkest Africa." Booth outlines practical solutions including work colonies, training centers, and aid programs designed to provide food, shelter, and employment for the destitute. His plan combines Christian principles with social action, aiming to transform both material circumstances and spiritual lives while challenging the state to meet its obligations.
George Lansbury
Your part in poverty
No description available.
Mary Higgs
Glimpses into the Abyss
"Glimpses into the Abyss" by Mary Higgs is a social research study written in the early 20th century. The book explores the harsh realities of vagrancy, poverty, and social disorder in England, drawing from firsthand investigations the author conducted over six years in various shelters and lodgings. Higgs's work aims to reveal the systemic failures in the treatment of vagrants and the underlying factors contributing to their plight, advocating for improved social legislation to address these issues. The opening portion of the work introduces the author’s extensive preface, where she outlines her research methodology and the motivations behind her explorations of vagrancy. It reveals her direct engagement with the destitute, detailing her efforts to provide shelter and assess their circumstances. Higgs describes her encounters with various cases of complete destitution, highlighting the progression of her social research from individual observations to a broader analysis of the national implications of poverty and vagrancy. She articulates her belief that understanding these social issues requires a scientific exploration of the underlying causes and an acknowledgment of the importance of reform in societal structures. This foundational context prepares readers for the following chapters that delve into specific aspects of vagrancy and proposed remedies.
H. G. Somerville
Curiosities of Impecuniosity
"Curiosities of Impecuniosity" by H. G. Somerville is a explorative work written in the late 19th century. This book delves into the various implications of financial hardship, examining both its moral and immoral effects on individuals across different walks of life. The author presents a rich narrative populated with historical figures and anecdotes that underscore the complex relationship between poverty, creativity, and character. The opening of the work provides a thoughtful reflection on the nature of impecuniosity, as the author discusses both the romantic and harsh realities of living with limited means. Using conversational dialogues, the text reveals contrasting perspectives on wealth and poverty, presenting characters who reminisce about the happiness found in simpler times. The narratives begin by illustrating how a lack of money can enhance appreciation for life's little pleasures while simultaneously addressing the often-debilitating impact of chronic financial struggle. Through these sentiments, Somerville sets the tone for a nuanced exploration of how impecuniosity shapes human experience across time and society.
John Cary
An Essay Towards Regulating the Trade, and Employing the Poor of This Kingdom Whereunto is Added, an Essay Towards Paying Off the Publick Debts
"An Essay Towards Regulating the Trade, and Employing the Poor of this Kingdom" by John Cary is a historical economic treatise written in the early 18th century. The work focuses on the relationship between trade regulation and the welfare of the poor, emphasizing the importance of managing trade to maximize the benefits for the nation. Cary outlines several proposals for improving national wealth through better trade practices whilst addressing the issues faced by the impoverished segments of society. The opening of the essay introduces Cary's dedication to the improvement of trade and employment in England, suggesting a framework for a more prosperous economy. He argues that regulation of trade is essential to maintaining a favorable balance and ensuring that the nation benefits from its productions and manufactures. Cary details various methods for government intervention, such as creating committees, inspecting trade practices, and supporting domestic industries while providing insights into the economic systems of his time. This foundation sets the stage for his subsequent propositions aimed at alleviating poverty and fostering national wealth.
J. A. (John Atkinson) Hobson
Problems of Poverty: An Inquiry into the Industrial Condition of the Poor
"Problems of Poverty: An Inquiry into the Industrial Condition of the Poor" by John A. Hobson is a social and economic analysis written in the late 19th century. This work addresses the systemic issues of poverty in industrial society, delving into the socio-economic structures that contribute to the conditions of the poor, particularly focusing on wage distributions, employment patterns, and the impact of urbanization. The opening of the book sets the stage for Hobson's inquiry by emphasizing the necessity of defining and measuring poverty accurately. He argues against the narrow legal definitions of poverty and presents a statistical examination of national income, highlighting disparities in wealth distribution among different social classes. Hobson references significant studies, particularly by Charles Booth, to illustrate the extent of poverty in urban areas such as East London. He categorizes the working poor into distinct classes based on income levels and living conditions and discusses the underlying economic and social forces at play, ultimately aiming to provoke a deeper understanding and dialogue about the plight of the impoverished in an industrial society.
Thomas Beggs
The Cholera: the claims of the poor upon the rich
"The Cholera: the claims of the poor upon the rich" by Thomas Beggs is a public health treatise written in the early to mid-19th century, likely during the Victorian era. The book addresses the social and sanitary conditions that precipitate cholera outbreaks, emphasizing the responsibilities of the wealthy towards the impoverished classes. It argues that the neglect of public health measures exacerbates the plight of the poor, making them more susceptible to diseases like cholera and typhus. In this work, Beggs provides a stark analysis of the socio-economic factors contributing to public health crises. He illustrates this through vivid accounts of cholera outbreaks, noting their disproportionate impact on the urban poor living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The author highlights specific cases, such as the tragic deaths within families due to the lack of proper drainage and clean water. He lays bare the moral and economic implications of ignoring public health, advocating for immediate action to improve living conditions, drainage systems, and overall sanitation. Through his arguments, Beggs implores the affluent classes to acknowledge their societal obligations and work towards creating a healthier environment for all, lest they risk the stability of society itself.
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