The Christian and Civic Economy of Large Towns: Volume 2

This three-volume work (1821–6) outlines the ways in which an urban industrial society can become self-sufficient through Christian communalism.

Thomas Chalmers (Author)

9781108062367, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 27 June 2013

374 pages
21.6 x 14 x 2.1 cm, 0.47 kg

This three-volume study by the Scottish churchman and social reformer Thomas Chalmers (1780–1847) is a revealing work of Christian morality as applied to urban economic theory. Having moved to Glasgow in 1815, Chalmers was given a free hand in 1819 for an experiment in urban ministry at the new parish of St John's in the poorest district of the city. His reforms improved education and reduced the need for institutional poor relief by dividing the area into manageable 'proportions' that were closely looked after by parish elders and deacons, reviving a traditional community spirit and promoting self-help. Although sometimes severe, Chalmers' system and this influential work reflect Enlightenment optimism regarding human nature, suggesting the need for the Church of Scotland to respond actively to problems of urban industrialisation. Volume 2, published in 1823, investigates the nature of pauperism in Scotland and England and the ways in which Parliament and the parish can work towards its abolition.

9. On the relation that subsists between the Christian and the civic economy of large towns
10. On the bearing which a right Christian economy has upon pauperism
11. On the bearing which a right civic economy has upon pauperism
12. On the present state and future prospects of pauperism in Glasgow
13. On the difficulties and evils which adhere even to the best condition of Scottish pauperism
14. On the likeliest means for the abolition of pauperism in England
15. On the likeliest parliamentary means for the abolition of pauperism in England
16. On the likeliest parochial means for the abolition of pauperism in England.

Subject Areas: British & Irish history [HBJD1]