Victorian Liberalism: Nineteenth-century political thought and practice

Victorian Liberalism explores the relationship between theory and ideology in nineteenth-century liberal thought and practice, drawing on a wide range of source material to examine liberal thinkers and politicians from Adam Smith to William Gladstone.

Format: Hardback
Length: 221 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

First published in 1990, Victorian Liberalism is a groundbreaking work that brings together renowned political theorists and historians to explore the intricate relationship between theory and ideology in nineteenth-century liberal thought and practice. Drawing upon a vast array of primary sources, the authors examine liberal thinkers and politicians ranging from Adam Smith, Jeremy Bentham, and John Stuart Mill to William Gladstone and Joseph Chamberlain. Throughout the book, connections are drawn between the diverse languages that composed liberal discourse and the ways in which these vocabularies related to the political movements and evolving social realities they aimed to explain. The result is a thought-provoking and pioneering volume that significantly advances our understanding of political history and political thought.

The book's central theme revolves around the examination of the ways in which liberal thinkers and politicians of the Victorian era grappled with the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly changing political, social, and economic landscape. The authors analyze the various theories and ideologies that shaped liberal thought during this period, including utilitarianism, liberalism, and conservatism, and explore how these ideas were translated into practical policies and programs. They also examine the role of liberalism in promoting social reform, such as the abolition of slavery, the expansion of women's rights, and the establishment of public education systems.

One of the book's key strengths lies in its ability to bring together a diverse range of perspectives and voices. The authors include both established scholars and emerging researchers, allowing for a comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of the subject matter. This approach ensures that the book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the complexities and contradictions within nineteenth-century liberalism, and provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the nature and legacy of liberalism in modern society.

In conclusion, Victorian Liberalism is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of political thought, the development of liberalism, or the complex interplay between theory and ideology. By exploring the ideas and experiences of liberal thinkers and politicians of the Victorian era, the book offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the enduring themes and challenges of liberalism in contemporary society.

Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032671567