This book is about continuity and change in early nineteenth-century Britain. Against the background of an emerging industrial state, the popularization of liberal laissez-faire principles and the rise of a class-based society, it examines the revival of traditional paternal ideals and considers their influence upon the development of social policy. The poor laws, social distress, child labour and factory reform provide a focus for the analysis. The implications of the revival for the emergence of the collective or welfare state is an important theme.

KIM LAWES is currently teaching British and European History in the School of Classics, History and Religion at the University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.

Acknowledgements List of Abbreviations Introduction: Michael Thomas Sadler and 'The Revival of the Aristocratic Paternalist Ideal' Continuity and Change in the Revival of Paternalist Social Thought Sadler's Protectionist, Paternalist Social System and the Foundation of His Social Agenda Parliamentary Debate of Social Issues, c.1815-30: A Conflict between Liberal Utilitarianism and Aristocratic Paternalism The 'Sadlerian School': A Defence of Protectionist, Paternalist Ideals Ireland, Distress and Social Instability: Sadler Endeavours to Direct the Government 'To a Better Policy' Sadler's Ten Hours Bill and Leadership of the Parliamentary Factory-Reform Campaign Conclusion: Towards a Realization of the Paternalist, Collectivist Idea of the State Notes Index